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INDIANS ATTACKING AN EMIGRANT TRAIN 












































































































































































































































































































/ 


FAMOUS 

Frontiersmen, Pioneers and 

THE VANGUARDS OF 

AMERICAN CIVILIZA TION. 

Two Centuries of the Romance of American History. 


Scouts; 


A THRILLING NARRATIVE OF THE LIVES AND MARVELOUS EXPLOITS OF 

THE MOST RENOWNED 

|4eF( 0EP, jFiyiVPPEI^g, TixPLOf^ERg, y^DVENTUKERg, 

Scouts, and Indian pighters. 


INCLUDING 

BOONE, CRAWFORD, GIRTY, MOLLY FINNEY, THE MCCULLOUGHS, WETZEL, 
KENTON, CLARK, BRADY, CROCKETT, HOUSTON, CARSON, CAI IFORNIA 
JOE, WILD BILL, TEXAS JACK, CAPTAIN JACK, BUFFALO BILL, 

GENERAL CUSTER WITH HIS LAST CAMPAIGN AGAINST SITTING BULL, 
AND GENERAL CROOK WITH HIS RECENT CAMPAIGN 
AGAINST THE APACHES, 


By E. G. CATTERMOLE, A. B. 


i -I 

' ) 

i^legantly lllustiiatEfl. 


CHICAGO: 

\Y II HATvIHSON, J\i., Publisher., 
1880 .. 









COPYIIIGHT, 

By W. H. HARRISON, Jr. 

1886 . 





DONOHUE & HENNEBERRY, 
Ipvintcfs an8 IGin&ci-s, 
Chicagq, 




Deeds of the truly great should be brought conspicuously 
before the people. Whether in literature, in science, in art, or 
in defense of home and country—wherever are found noble char¬ 
acters, for memory’s sake, no less than to inspire others with a 
spirit of emulation, we ought to rehearse their achievements, and 
tell the story of their struggles and triumphs. There are so many 
temptations to follow pernicious lives; so few incentives, compara¬ 
tively, toward pure heroism and genuine nobility of character. 
Our part of the world, particularly, is in danger of reclining upon 
the couch of luxury, and cultivating that spirit of effeminacy so 
suicidal to the possessor. The sacrifices of ancestral heroes find 
little appreciation by the modern youth, largely from the fact that 
the perils of early settlement are so little known. 

To supply some stimulating food of this character, is the 
object of the present volume. Such lives as those of Houston, 
Boone, Crockett, Custer, Crook, and others to be found in the 
work, should be recounted at every fireside between the great seas. 

It has been the object of the author to condense into as small 
space as possible, the chief events of each life, not forgetting to draw 
such lessons as may prove finger-posts to those who need a guide. 



IV. 


PREFACE. 


To indulge in eloquent flights of fancy, profound soundings in 
historical philosophy, or even to paint beautiful word-pictures, 
would have been destructive of the more practical effect for which 
this work has been written. Hence, the only merit claimed lies in 
accurateness of detail and perspicuity of style—a true sketch, in 
pure Anglo Saxon, of worthy men. 

The author desires to acknowledge the kindly suggestions 
and assistance of Mr. C. B. Holding in the preparation of the work. 

Asking for the present volume no more commendation than 
its contents justify, after an honest perusal, it is respectfully 
submitted by the author. 




DANIEL BOONE, 

The Father of Kentucky. 

COL WM CRAWFORD, 

The Martyr to Itidian Revenge. 

SIMON GIRTY, 

The White Savage. 

MOLLY FINNEY, 

The Beautiful Canadian Captive. 

MAJORS SAMUEL and JOHN McOULLOUGW 

Patriots and Frontiersmen. 

LEWIS WETZEL, 

The Indiaji Killer. 

SIMON KENTON, 

The Intrepid Pioneer. 

GEN. GEORGE R. CLARK, 

The Heroic Conqueror. 

5 



% 


CAPT BRA.DY, 

The Great Indian Fighter^ 

DAVY CROCKETT, 

The Hero of Alamo. 


GEN. SAM HOUSTON, 

The Liberator of the Lone Star State 


KIT CARSON, 

The Celebrated Plainsman and Fxflorer. 


GEN, CUSTER, 

The Hero of Little Big Horn. 


BUFFALO BILL, 

The Tireless Rider., Hunter and Scout, 


WILD BILL, 

The Lightning Marksmaij 

CALIFORNIA JOE, 

The Scout, 

TEXAS JACK, 

The Government Scout and Hunter, 

CAPT JACK, 

The Poet Scout, 


GEN. CROOK. 

The Conqueror of the Apaches, 



6 


tilSM 


Indians Attacking an Emigrant Train, 

Daniel Boone,. 

Boone and Stuart Trapping Beaver, - 
Boone’s Encounter with Indians, - 

Indian Attack,. 

Boone Defending his Son’s Body, 

View on the Ohio,. 

Indian Weapons, . - . . . 

Indian War Dance,. 

Early Pioneers,. 

Crawford’s Attack on the Indians, 

Indian Ambuscade, .... 

Indians Torturing a Captive, 

Scene of the Wyoming Massacre, 

Kenton and Girty,. 

Indian Bag, Drum, etc. 

Canadian Trapper,. 

Scene on Casco Bay, .... 

Scene on the St. Lawrence, 

Blockhouse,. 

Indian Dance,. 

Trading with Indians, . - - - 

A Perilous Adventure, . . . . 

Kenton Shooting Indians, 

Kenton Saving Boone, . . . . 

Kenton and Ilis Deliverer, 

Deer-Hunting in the Northwest, 

Exploring Western River, 

Squaws Ascending River with Provisions, 
A Wounded Trapper, .... 
Scalp Drying,. 


PAGE 

{^Frontispiece) 

i8 

21 

24 

- 27 
33 

- - 38 

50 

- - 58 

66 

- 68 

74 

- 81 
88 

- 91 
100 

- 102 
108 

- 116 
128 

- 148 

155 

- 162 
170 

- 181 

195 

- 204 
213 

- 229 
234 

- 241 


vii 






























vni 


LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS. 


PAGE. 

Captives Escape from Indians,.245 

Davy Crockett,.25S 

A Death Struggle,.265 

Crockett Shooting Bears,.287 

A Fallen Monarch, - - - -*.295 

Gen. Houston,.306 

Buifalo Hunting,.317 

First Steamboat on the Rio Grande, ... - ... 329 

Gen. Houston Fighting Indians,.337 

Indian Warrior,.341 

Sun Worship by Southern Indians,.346 

Kit Carson,.348 

Kit Carson Hunting Buffalo,.353 

Kit Carson Killing Indians,.357 

Carson’s Indian Daughter, . .^ . 362 

Carson’s Indian Bride, ..363 

Carson’s Duel with a Frenchman, ....... 

Kit Carson and his Blind Horse,.379 

Squaw and Pappoose,.389 

Gen. Custer,.-.398 

A Crow Chief,.407 

Indian Chief Forbidding Passage of Train,.415 

Custer’s Last Fight,.427 

Buffalo Bill,.432 

A Fortunate Shot,.436 

Indians’ First View of a Train,.445 

Indians in Town,. ... ^30 

Shooting Deer at Long Range,.436 

Crystal Lake, California,.462 

Indian Medicine Man,.4^4 

Wild Bill,.476 

Black Nell,.483 

Struggle for Life,.487 

Indian Ambuscade, ........... 4^0 

California Joe, ........... 4^2 

Texas Jack,.498 

Captain Jack,. 310 

Gen. Crook,.31(3 

Apache Indians Scalping,. 327 




































LIFE OF DANIEL BOONE. 


17 — 65 - 


chapter I. 

Origin—Early Characteristics—Surroundings in Youth—Kills a Panther in 
Boyhood—A Student of Nature—His Ambition—Connection with North 
Carolina—Marriage and Domestic Life—Political Interest—Kentucky, 
“ The Promised Land ”—Capture by Indians—Plan of Escape—Massacre 
of Companions.17—29. 

CHAPTER H. 

Boone and Stuart—Experience with Hostile Indians—Brother and Friend 
Arrive wdth Supplies—Stuart a Victim to Indian Cruelty—Mysterious 
Disappearance—Uncomfortable Surroundings—Boone Alone—Return of 
Squire Boone—^Journey to Atlantic States—Emigration to Kentucky— 
Boone’s Son Killed—Treaty wdth Cherokees—Boonesborough Settled— 


Capture of Girls by Savages—Rescue.30—40. 

CHAPTER HI. 

War w’ith England — Boonesborough Besieged by Indians — Expedition to 


Blue Lick—Boone Again Taken Prisoner—Surrenders Entire Party of 
Men—Court-Martialed, but Acquitted, and Promoted to Rank of Major— 
Indians Present Ten Prisoners to British at Detroit—Boone Compelled to 
Return to Chillicothe—Ceremony of Adoption by Indian Tribe—Experi¬ 
ences During Captivity—Escape—Duquesne Commands Indians in a Sec¬ 
ond Attack on Boonesborough—Successful Defence.41—49- 

CHAPTER IV. 

Boone as Lieut.-Col.—Siege of Bryant’s Station—Indian Ambuscade—Sixtv- 
Four Kentuckians Killed—Col. Logan—Land Purchases—Reward for 
Military Services—Narrow Escape—Loss of Property—In Exile... . 50—56 

CHAPTER V. 

Hunters on the Missouri—Boone Welcomed by the Governor—Land Granted 
—The Great Naturalist, Audubon, Visits Boone—Anecdote Related by 
Audubon—Audubon’s Description of Boone—A Victim of Law—Ken¬ 
tucky Acknowledges the Justice of Boone’s Claim—Death of Boone’s Wife 

—Boone’s Last Days—Kentucky Honors Her Illustrious Dead.57—65. 

ix 









X 


CONTENTS. 


LIFE OF COL. WILLIAM CRAWFORD, 

SOLDIER, PATRIOT, AND MARTYR. 

66-S6. 

CHAPTER I. 

Friendship with Washington—Youthful Pastimes—Commissioned Lieut, for 
Bravery—Promoted to Captain—Seeks a Home—Enters the Colonial 
Army—Campaigns Against the Indians—The Battle—Retreat—Crawford 
Missing... .69—78. 


CHAPTER II. 

Captured by Indians—Companions Massacred—Interview with Girty—Aid 


Refused—Tiresome Marches — Indignities — Doomed to Death — Beaten 
and Fiendishly Tortured—Burned at the Stake. .79—86. 


LIFE OF SIMON GIRTY. 

S7— 99 - 

chapter I. 

Early Influences—Demoralizing Surroundings—Family—Life in Captivity 
During Boyhood—Effects of Savage Training—Return Home—Girty and 
Kenton as Spies—Faithful Service—Espouses the Cause of Freedom—Dis¬ 
satisfaction — Becomes a Traitor — Allies Himself with British and 
Savages.89—94. 

CHAPTER H. 

Attack on Bryant’s Station—Power as a Leader—Gets Command of a Large 
Force—Seeks Vengeance—Marries—Sinks into Dissipation—Instances of 
Extreme Cruelty—Becomes Blind Several Years Before Death... .95—99. 

LIFE OF MOLLY FINNEY, 

THE CANADIAN CAPTIVE. 

100—126. 

CHAPTER I. 

Her Remarkable Beauty—Fireside Conversation—Attempt to Remove Fears 
—Startled—Indians Effect an Entrance—Kill Mr. Means and Child—Cap¬ 
ture Miss Finney — Indians Flee—Burial—Remainder Seek Block- 
House ..103—III. 

CHAPTER II. 

Retreat of Indians—Nurse—Arrival at Quebec—Sale of Molly Lemoine— 
Purchaser—Her Work in Captivity—Capt. M’Lellan Arrives at Quebec— 
Inquiries for Captive—Landlord’s Instructions.112—118. 

CHAPTER HI. 

Miss Finney under Guard—M’Lellan’s Visit—Note—Reply—Appointed Mid- 







CONTENTS. 


xi 


night Meeting—Preparations for Fligiit, with Novel Experiences—Thanks¬ 
giving for Restoration—Capt. M’Lellan at Flying Point—The Wedding 
.119—126. 


LIFE OF SAMUEL AND JOHN McCULLOUGH. 

127—146. 

CHAPTER I. 

Samuel McCullough—From Private to Major in Revolutionary War—Hero¬ 
ism—Perilous Leap for Life—Well Earned Shout of Victorv—Patriotism 
of the True Type—The Last Ride—Indians Desecrate McCullough’s 
Remains—Burial by Friends.129—134. 

CHAPTER H. 

Captivity of the McCulloughs—Immersion, an Indian Rite—Brothers Sepa¬ 
rated—Sickness and Intense Suffering—Surgical Operation Performed by 
Savages—Recovery. 1 . .135—140. 


CHAPTER III. 

John McCullough, Concluded—Barely Escapes Drowning—Indian Method of 
Resuscitation—Horrible Punishment—Indian Doctrines—Compelled to 
Quit His Indian Life—Relatives for a Time Forgotten—Returns to 
Friends and Civilization—Enters Army—Promoted to Major... .141—147. 

LIFE OF LEWIS WETZEL. 

147—168. 

CHAPTER I. 

Character Developed by Frontier Life—Cause of Eternal Hatred—Lewis and 
Jacob Prisoners—Their Escape—Preparation for Dealing Vengeance— 
Running Encounter with Braves—Company Organized for Revenge— 
Large Numbers of Red Men — Remains Alone—Returns Victorious 
. 149 — 157 - 


chapter H. 

His Resolve—A Cold-Blooded Slaughter—Peace Treaty—Braves Called to a 
Conference—Sport at the Red Man’s Expense—Attempt to Punish the 
Offenders—Seizure—Imprisonment—Flight—Reward for His Capture— 
Recapture—Trial—Release—His Last Days.158—168 


LIFE OF GEN. SIMON KENTON, 

[alias butler.] 

169—202. 

CHAPTER I. 

Birthplace-Cause of Wild Life—Joins Band of Rovers—Down the Ohio— 
Seeks an “Eldorado”—Returns to Salt Lick—Trapping and Hunting— 
Surprised by Indians—Kenton and Yager Reach the Ohio.171—176. 








Xll 


CONTENTS. 


CHAPTER 11. 

Southward with Traders—Shortest Route to Virginia—Alone in the Wilder¬ 
ness—Enters His Country’s Service—Search for the “ Hunter’s Paradise” 
—Surprised by Friends—Return—Indian Signs—The Camp Abandoned 
. 177—182. 


CHAPTER III. 

Welcomed at Boonesborough—Attack upon Indian Towns—As Spy—Narrow 
Escape—Reconnoitering Expedition—Indian Horses as Booty—Captured 
—Doomed to the Stake—Runs the Gauntlet.183—191. 

CHAPTER IV. 

Taken to Wappatomica—Resolves to Escape—March—Flight—Recapture— 
His Sufferings—Girty’s Plea—Kenton’s Release—Summoned to the Coun¬ 
cil House—Twice Doomed to the Stake—His Deliverance—Prisoner at 
Detroit—Escape—Brigadier-General—Death.192— 202 ^ 

GEN. GEORGE R. CLARK. 

203—232. 

CHAPTER I. 

Literary Tastes—Studies Surveying—Seeks Fame—Allured to Kentucky— 
Founder of Government—Co-operation of Virginia—Eminence as a Leader 
—Peer of Washington—Capture of British Stronghold at Kaskaskia— 
Catholic Devotions.205—215 

CHAPTER II. 

Vincennes Surrenders—Escapes Kidnapping—Grand Council Called—Famous 
Speech—Indians Offer Two of Their Tribe as an Atonement—Submit 
Themselves a Willing Sacrifice—Made Chiefs—Reconciliation—Pipe of 
Peace.216-L221. 


CHAPTER III. 

The British Governor, Hamilton, Before Vincennes—Vanquished—Clark 
Fears Capture—Marches Men to Conquer the Enemy—Terrible Hardships 
—Unparalleled Heroism—The Foe in View—Successful Strategy—Vin¬ 
cennes Surrenders—Brigadier-General.222—232. 


LIFE OF CAPT. SAMUEL BRADY. 

233—256. 

CHAPTER I. 


Irish-American Origin—Born Amid Perils—Surrounded by Hardships—Father 
and Brother Killed by “Lo”—Revenge—A Soldier in the Revolution— 
Pinned to a Fence by a British Bayonet—Incidents in the Indian Country 
.235—241. 


CHAPTER II. 


Weary of Rest—Adventures for Pleasure—Brady a'^d a Dutchman Capture an 









CONTENTS. 


xiii 


Indian Camp—“ The Times that Tried Men’s Souls ”—Hostility to the 
Hostiles—Brady’s Part in the Excursion—Narrow Escape—Three Birds 
with one Stone—Surprising an Indian Camp.242—251. 

CHAPTER III. 

End of the War for Independence—Continuation of the Three Hundred Years' 
War Against the Indians—Brady Rescues a Family—Marries Miss 
Swearingen—Dies a Natural Death.252—256. 


LIFE OF DAVY CROCKETT. 

257—304- 

chapter I. 

Early Life—School Experiences—Flees the Paternal Rod—Visits Gerardstown 
—Wanders to Baltimore—Learns the Hatter’s Trade—The Truant Returns 
—Courtship and Marriage.259—269. 

CHAPTER H. 

Distinguishes Himself in War—Famine and Mutiny in the Army—Termina¬ 
tion of War—The Hero Enjoys Rustic Life—Marries Again—Moves to 
Another Country—Political Career Begun—Justice of Peace—Colonel— 
Representative.269—280. 


CHAPTER HI. 

Makes a New Home—Persistence and Bravery—A Second Time Candidate 
for the Legislature in Opposition to Jackson—Is Himself Defeated—Two 
Years in Speculation—Bear Hunting—Takes His Seat in Congress—Tour 
Through the North.281—291. 


CHAPTER .IV. 

Feted at Boston and Lowell—Returns to the National Halls—Receives Costly 
Rifle from Whigs at Philadelphia—Is Welcomed Home—Amusing Inci¬ 
dents in Political Life—Opposes Andrew Jackson.292—298. 

CHAPTER V. 

Departure for Texas—Strange Adventures—Shows True Courage and Nobility 
—Resists Santa Anna—Fighting Against Great Odds—Hand to Hand 
Conflict—Dies in the Cause of Liberty at Alamo.. .299—304. 

LIFE OF GEN. SAMUEL HOUSTON. 

SOLDIER, LAWYER, AND STATESMAN. 

305—345. 

CHAPTER I. 

Taste for the Classics—Academy Life—Among the Red Men—Seeks the 
Maternal Roof—Engages in Teaching—Answers the Call of His Country 
—Sterling Characterisiics of the Mother—Distinguishes Himself at Horse- 
shoe Battle—-Lieutenant in Regular Army—Nashville and the Law—Is 
Rewarded with Pubiic, Offices.........307—315. 










XIV 


CONTENTS. 


CHAPTER II. 

As Major General—Twice Sent to Congres —Appointed Governor of Tennes¬ 
see—Marries—Clouds on the Horizon of Domestic Life—Departure of the 
Bride—Political Discord—Resigns the Gubernatorial Office—Repairs to 
His Indian Friends—Recalled to Public Duty—Personal Combat—Victo¬ 
rious—An Honorable Acquittal.316—325. 

CPIAPTER III. 

Commander-in-Chief of the Texan Forces—Fort Alamo Taken, and Inmates 
Massacred—Leads Texan Army Against the Mexicans—Destroys the 
Entire Force under Santa Anna—Obtains Large Spoils—Values Honor 
Alone.32^335- 


CHAPTER IV. 

Results of the Battle of San Jacinto—Vi'-it to New Orleans—Health Restored 
—Elected President of the Texan Republic—Releases Santa Anna—A 
Leader in Congress—Re-elected to Presidency—Represents Texas at 
Washington—Peculiarities.336—345. 


LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 


347 — 396 - 

chapter 1. 

Educational Advantages—Apprenticed—Joins an Expedition for Santa Fe— 
Accompanies Col. Farwell as Interpreter— Enters upon His Favorite 
Pursuit of Trapping and Trading—Improves Every Opportunity to Gain 
a Knowledge of the Country—Social Nature Displayed— “ Monarch of the 
Plains”.. 349 — 358 - 

chapter H. 


At the Head Waters of the Missouri—Wounded in an Indian Encounter— 
Abandons His Profession—As Hunter to the I'ort—Feasted and Honored 
at St. Louis—Guide of the Expedition to Explore the Unknown West 
... 359 — 367 - 


chapter HI. 


On the Loftiest Peak of the Rocky Mountains—Return to Fort Laramie— 
Accompanies^ Fremont on an Exploring Expedition to Great Salt Lake— 
First Experiences on the “ Inland Sea ”.. .368—376. 

CHAPTER IV. 

Courage Fails Eleven of the Party—The Remainder Bravely Endure the Perils 
—Return—Crossing the Mountains—Effect of Exposure upon the Company 
—Arrival at Sutter’s Fort—Third Expedition—Carson as Patriot. .377—385. 

CHAPTER V. 

To the Rescue of the Official from Washington—Warriors A ttack the Slumber, 
ing Party—Conquest of California—Carson Bears Dispatch of Their 
Achievements to Washington—Examples of Fidelity and Bravery - Brevet 
Brigadier-General—Death.386 396. 









CONTENTS. 


XV 


LIFE OF MAJ.-GEN. GEORGE A. CUSTER. 

397—430. 

CHAPTER I. 

Schcx)l Days—Love for Sport—Makes Firm Friends—As a Pedagogue— 
Admitted to West Point—Life as a Cadet—Receives Expulsion—Is 
Re-admitted—Graduates...398—405. 

CHAPTER H. 

Interview with Gen. Scott—With McDowell, as Lieutenant, at Bull Run— . 
Ready for Emergencies—Under the Command of Brig.-Gen. Kearney— 
Invited to a Position on Gen. McClellan’s Staff—In Hancock’s Division— 
Distinguishes Himself in “The Seven Days’ Fight”—Wins Glory under 
Gen. Kilpatrick—Made Brigadfer-General .406—417 

CHAPTER HI. 

Custer at Gettysburg—The Battle of the Wilderness—Winchester and Rich¬ 
mond—Courtship and Marriage—Life on the Western Plains—At the Trial 
of Belknap—Makes Enemies—Grant Removes Him from His Com¬ 
mand—Fights the Indians under Silting Bull—Gives His Life in Protec- 
ion of the Frontier.418—430 

LIFE OF BUFFALO BILL. 

[lION. W. F. CODY.] 

431 — 473 - 

chapter I. 

Birth—Family Connections—Trapping—-Horsemanship—Use of the Lasso— 
Cody’s Father Attacked—Memf)er of Legislature at Lawrence—Schoolboy 
Fight—The Father Dies—Bill Offers Family Support—Kills His First 
Indian at Twelve Years.433—442 


CHAPTER H. 

Fort Lawrence and Salt Lake City—Meets Wild Bill—Gen. Custer Describes 
“Wild Bill”—Robbed by Mormons—Indian Attack—Disabled—Twenty- 
Nine Days Alone—Indians Take Provisions and Fire-Arms—Friendly 
Chief—Threatened by Wolves—Rescued—Death of Dave, Friend and Pre- 
server.443—452 


CHAPTER HI. 

Bear Hunting—Encounter with Thieves—Pony Express Rider—With Col. C. 
Clark’s Expedition Against Indians—His Mother’s Death—A Soldier— 
Marriage—A.s Pilot to Custer—Anticipated Millions—Championship in 
Buffalo Hunting ... .453—465 

CHAPTER IV. 

Scout and Guide — Fort Leavenworth and Gen. Hazen — Hazen—Indians 
Thwarted—Gen. Sheridan and Fort Hays—Chief of Scouts—Guide to 
Grand Duke Alexis—Entertainment at Chicago and New York—Members 
of Legislature in Nebraska—Acquires Celebrity and Means as an Actor— 
Takes Part in Sioux War—Settles on Farm in Nebraska.466—473 









XVI 


CONTENTS, 


LIFE OF WILD BILL. 

474—489. 

Frontier Settlements—Scouts in General—Description of Wild Bill—Charac¬ 
teristics—Associations—Black IS ell Introduced—Trial of Skill as a Marks¬ 
man—Rescues a Child—Incident of Scout Life in Connection with Civil 
War—Later Experiences—Death.477—489 

LIFE OF CALIFORNIA JOE. 

491—496. 

His Early Life a Mystery—Fights Indians Successfully—Receives Recognition 
from the Military—Obtains Notoriety in California—Enters Service of 
Union Army—Chief of Scouts—Death at the Hands of an Assassin 

.493—496 


LIFE OF TEXAS JACK. 

497—508. 


Thirst for Adventure—Preparation for Pioneer Life—Ambition for Cattle- 
Raising—Incidents of Travel—Arrives in Texas—As a “Cow-boy” — 
Hunter to Government Fort—Scout and Guide—Owner of a Ranch— 
Connection with Theatrical Life—Resumes Life in the West—Dies in 
Colorado.499—508 


LIFE OF CAPTAIN JACK. 

509—514. 

Poet—Border Ranger—Goes to Black Hills—Metes out Justice—Companion 
of Buffalo Bill and California Joe—Indian Fighter and Scout—Personal 
Appearance—Incidents..511—514 

LIFE OF GEN. GEO. CROOK. 

515— • 

CHAPTER I. 

Unexpected Arrival at Tucson—Reception and Banquet—Speeches and Toasts 
—Opinions of Army Representatives—Sentiments of the People—Ex¬ 
periences During Recent Campaign—Captives Held by Indians Released— 
A Vexed Question Settled.“.515— 

CHAPTER H. 

Birth—Life at West Point—Rise in Regular Army—Comes to the Front on 
the Pacific Coast—Wins Distinction as an Indian Fighter—His Civil War 
Record—Major-General U. S. Volunteers — Second Career in Regular 
Army—Assignment to Military Department in Arizona—First Victory 
over the Apaches—Policy v ith the Indians—Transferred to Army of the 
Platte—Marches against Sitting Bull—Another Brilliant Victory—Causes, 
of Return to Arizona. 


















DANIEL BOONE. 


j8 









































LIFE OF DANIEL BOONE. 


CHAPTER I. 

ORIGIN—EARLY CHARACTERISTICS-SURROUNDINGS IN YOUTH- 

KILLS A PANTHER IN BOYHOOD—A STUDENT OF NATURE_ 

HIS AMBITION-CONNECTION WITH NORTH CAROLINA_MAR¬ 
RIAGE AND DOMESTIC LIFE-POLITICAL INTEREST—KEN¬ 
TUCKY, “THE PROMISED LAND ”-CAPTURE BY INDIANS_ 

PLAN OF ESCAPE-MASSACRE OF COMPANIONS. 

Daniel Boone was born in Exeter township, Bucks county, 
Penn., February ii, 1735. This date is believed to be correct, 
though some writers have placed his birth one year earlier. Best 
authorities, however, agree on the date given above. Daniel was 
the fourth of seven sons. He had four sisters. His father. Squire 
Boone, was son of George Boone, who came from Bradwinch, 
about eight miles from Exeter, England. The family of George 
Boone arrived at Philadelphia, October 10, 1717. 

He was a man of considerable wealth, as is evidenced by the 
fact that immediately upon his arrival in Pennsylvania he purchased 
a large tract of land in what is now Bucks county. 

He purchased also several tracts of land in Maryland and Vir¬ 
ginia, and tradition says he once owned the land on which George¬ 
town, District of Columbia, now stands, and that he laid out and 
named that town. The fact that the Boone family owned land in 

19 



20 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


Virginia, may have led to the error made by some writers in nam¬ 
ing that State as the place of Daniel’s nativity. Daniel’s mother 
was Sarah Morgan, but of her ancestry the records are silent. It 
is a matter of interest and worthy of note that Daniel’s ancestors 
were Christians, having been members of the English Church in 
England. Arriving in this country they permitted themselves to 
be considered Quakers, but subsequent events proved conclusively 
that Daniel was not taught Quaker maxims; or, if he was, that he, 
at an early age, departed therefrom. But of what religious joer- 
suajion he or his ancestors were, does not form an important part of 
his history; though the fact of his abiding faith in the wisdom anCl 
power of an overruling Providence enables us to comprehend his 
matchless courage and indomitable will displayed from boyhood to 
old age. 

Exeter, his native place, can be easily imagined when the 
undeveloped condition of the nation in that period is remembered. 
There were no magnificent cities then; no railways, nor any of the 
great inventions and conveniences of the day. Exeter, when Daniel 
Boone was born, was only a frontier settlement, consisting of a few 
log huts, entirely surrounded by dense forests. In these woods was 
abundance of game, and there roamed at will the panther, the bear, 
the lynx, the wild cat, and other ferocious animals. There lived 
also the Indian, more fierce and more to be dreaded than any of the 
wild beasts. The most harm the beasts would do the settlers was 
to attack their domestic animals at night; or, when at bav, hard 
pressed by the hunters, turn and rend their pursuers. The Indians 
would plan their attack with wisdom, fall upon unsuspecting set¬ 
tlers, destroy property, murder helpless children, and carry the 
women into captivity,—a fate more dreadful than death. These 
surroundings need to be remembered that an idea may be obtained 
of the character of the mould in which Daniel Boone was cast. 
With him to load and fire a rifle was second nature; to roam the 




<21 



















































































2^ 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


wild wood alone, or in company with youthful companions, was 
pastime; to track the bear, or pursue the panther, was exhilarating 
sport. Many incidents of those days have come down to us, 
exhibiting in bright and favorable light the coolness and courage 
of Boone. 

At one time, after a day’s ramble in the woods, when the sun 
was down and dark less creeping on, Daniel and several compan¬ 
ions were returning home, when some of the boys cried: “ A 
panther! A panther!” and started on a run for home. Not so 
Daniel. He stopped, and discovered the whereabouts of the animal 
just as he was crouching to spring upon him. Quick as a flash his 
rifle was at his shoulder, and the next moment the panther lay at 
his feet, pierced through by the bullet from his gun. 

His love for adventure, and his ambitious nature, are fully illus¬ 
trated by his leaving home and wandering several miles away into 
the forest, at night resting under a hastily built shelter of poles and 
brush, and during the day hunting at will through the woods. His 
parents became alarmed at his prolonged absence, and instituted a 
search which resulted in finding him three miles from home, living 
alone in a cabin, a structure of his own making. They found him 
in possession of a good supply of skins of wild animals, which his 
own hands had captured. 

As might be supposed, his educational advantages were limited. 
There were few schoolhouses in those days on the frontier, and 
fewer teachers. Occasionally a man would come to a neighbor¬ 
hood, and for a few weeks or months teach school. Generally these 
wandering pedagogues were themselves poorly prepared to impart 
instruction to the children, knowing but little more than reading, 
writing and spelling, and how to “ cipher to the rule of three,” as 
simple proportion as now taught, was called. There is no very full 
or definite account extant of Daniel’s experiences at school. Some 
one of his numerous biographers have related that while at school 


DANIEL DOONE. 


n 


he was fond of playing practical jokes upon the teacher. At one 
time he discovered, hidden in the brush, a flask from which the 
Irish schoolmaster was in the habit of refreshing himself at frequent 
intervals each day. Into the whiskey he put a quantity of an 
emetic. The result can better be imagined than described. We 
need only to say that there was a vacation the rest of the day. The 
master finally discovered the guilty culprit, and Daniel’s attendance 
at that school terminated abruptly. But what he lacked in knowl¬ 
edge that might have been gained from books-, he more than made 
up by a close study of nature. His subsequent career proves that 
he did not fail to read the pages spread out before him day by day, 
with studious carefulness. 

When Daniel was about eighteen years of age his father 
removed with his family from Pennsylvania to North Carolina, 
locating near Holman’s Ford, on the Yadkin River, not far from 
Wilkesboro. This removal occurred in 1752. The people now 
living in that region recall with pleasure the sojourn of the great 
backwoodsman in their country. The capital of Watauga county, 
founded in 1S49, is named Boone in his honor. John H. Wheeler 
in his “Historical Sketches of North Carolina,” says of him: “His 
fame is part of her property.” 

When about twenty-one years of age Daniel Boone was mar¬ 
ried to Miss Rebecca Bryan, while yet living on the Yadkin. 

The children by this marriage were nine in number, the sons 
being James, Israel, Jesse, Daniel, and Nathan; the daughters, 
Susan, Jemima, Lavinia, and Rebecca. Two of the boys, James 
and Israel, were killed in battle with the Indians. In 1846 Nathan 
was captain in the United States army. All trace of the other 
members of the family has been lost from history. 

Many accounts of the marriage of Boone to Miss Bryan have 
contained a narrative, very romantic in its details, of how Daniel 
one night mistook the bright shining of her eyes for those of a 



24 



































DANIEL BOONE. 


25 


deer, and barely missed firing upon her with his accustomed success 
as a marksman. This is, however, a myth. So experienced a hunter 
as Daniel, even at that age, would not make such a mistake. 
Doubtless there was much of romance about their courtship and 
marriage, which would have been of interest if recorded; but in 
those days there were sterner things than love-making to engage 
the attention and pen of historians. A nation was being builded, 
and Boone and his compatriots were builders upon that now mighty 
and beautiful structure. 

Daniel seems to have taken kindly to the new relations estab¬ 
lished by marriage, and at once ceased his roaming and settled down 
to the quiet and prosperity of a farmer’s life, which continued for 
the next five years. It is presumable that the rest of his days 
would have passed in a similar manner, but for the disturbed con¬ 
dition of the country politically. The colonists were at that time 
beginning to grow restive under the cruel treatment of the power 
across the sea. Boone was no doubt an interested observer of the 
signs of the times. He disliked discord and political commotion, 
and longed for the quiet of the woods, the “far West” of those 
days. There were probably other motives that prompted his excur¬ 
sions into the fastnesses of the unbroken and unknown territory 
now known as Kentucky. There were men of wealth and of polit¬ 
ical influence, shrewd men, who looked over the Apalachian range 
of mountains with an intense longing for a new State in which 
they should figure as founders and leaders of thought and political 
action. There are grounds for believing such men as these 
employed Boone, on account of his eminent fitness for the work, tci’ 
make tours of inspection throughout the great West. 

As early as 1760 he began to visit those regions, and there is 
positive proof that about that time he hunted along the Watauga 
River. As early as 1748 Dr. Thomas Walker, of Virginia, ac¬ 
companied by several men of rank in the volunteer army, made 


26 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


an exploring tour among the then western wilds. It was this com¬ 
pany that discovered and named the “Cumberland Mountains,” 
“Cumberland Gap,” and “Cumberland River,” all of which were 
named in honor of the Duke of Cumberland, then Prime Minister 
of England. In 1760 Dr. Walker made another tour of explora¬ 
tion. About the same time a number of hunters, among whom 
were Wallen, Scaggs, Blevins, and Cox, of Virginia, also went 
West and penetrated the region now known as Kentucky. The 
recorder of their travels says, “ This year came Daniel Boone, from 
the Yadkin, in North Carolina, and traveled with them as far as 
the place where Abingdon now stands, and there left them.” 

This seems to be good evidence that Boone commenced his 
westward movements about 1760. 

Ramsay, in his “Annals of Tennessee,” says, in his day there 
was to be seen upon a beech tree, standing in sight, and east of the 
stage road from Jonesboro to Blountsville, in the valley of Boone’s 
Creek, a tributary to Watauga River, the following inscription: 
“ D. Boon CillED a bar on ThE tres in yEAR 1760.” Taking 
these evidences as authority, Ramsay concludes that Boone visited 
Tennessee about ten years before its permanent settlement. 

In 1767 John Finley led a party of hunters from North Caro¬ 
lina into Kentucky. On his return he visited Boone and gave him 
a most glowing account of the richness of the country he had just 
left. Boone at once determined to accompany Finley upon his next 
hunting excursion. Soon afterward a party was made up to revisit 
the land that Finley had described as teeming with deer, turkeys, 
buffaloes, and smaller game. The intention was to make a thorough 
investigation of the country, and a long absence was expected. The 
preparations to be made to leave the families comfortable, were 
many, so it was not until May i, 1769, that the party were ready 
to start on their pilgrimage to the “ promised land.” After a tramp 
lasting more than a month they reached the Canaan to which they 


DAN TEL BOONE. 


37 


were bound. Up the mountain side they had toiled all day. At 
last they reached the summit and from that height took in at a 
glance a most entrancing scene. The sun was just above the western 
hills. The air was cool and balmy. Rich valleys stretched out 
below and before them. All nature was in bright array. Herds 
of buffalo grazed quietly. Flocks of turkey appeared in view. 
Deer were plentiful. The tales told by Finley were confirmed. 



INDIAN ATTACK. 


The party gazed in si¬ 
lence ; then congratu¬ 
lations were exchanged, 
and they descended to a 
gorge in the mountain side 
and began preparations 
for a long stay. Their cabin was rude, and hastily constructed. 
The sides were logs rolled together, and the roof bark peeled from 
linden trees. This was their home from June until December. 
During that time no'signs of Indians were seen, and the hunters felt 
no fear of attack, whether in company or alone. 











28 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS, 


The ground they were on was occasionally occupied by Shaw- 
nees, Cherokees, and Chickasaws as a hunting ground. The title 
to the land was vested in Virginia, and was acquired by treaty in 
1770. The Iroquois had a year or two previously, ceded all claim 
they might have had to that country, to Great Bri\.ain. For these 
reasons, at the time Boone and his companions were hunting they 
were not in territory to which Indians had a title. But of course 
lack of title did not prevent frequent incursions of neighboring 
tribes, who came bent on pleasure or business, according to the 
requirements of the moment. Pleasure, if game was discovered; 
business, if the hated pale face appeared on the scene. A new 
experience awaited the little company. They usually hunted in 
pairs for companionship and for assistance when circumstances 
required it. In December, 1769, some writers fixing the date as 
the 32d of the month, Daniel Boone and James Stuart started out 
to penetrate the depths of a cane brake, following, doubtless, the 
well-worn paths made by the buflFalo. They were in danger, but 
knew it not. In all their wanderings they had seen not a single 
wigwam, and had found no traces of the presence of the red man. 
The country was well adapted to concealment of the foe until the 
victim was in reach, and escape shut off. While Boone and Stuart 
were pushing forward, unmindful of danger, a party of Indians 
rushed from their concealment, captured, disarmed, and bound the 
two helpless hunters. It requires no vivid imagination to picture 
their chagrin and grief at this sad termination of their excursion. 
They were sufficiently acquainted with Indian character and cus¬ 
toms to know that one of two fates awaited them. One was to 
suffer slow torture until death set them free. The other was to con¬ 
sent to adoption in the tribe, and henceforth become in their move¬ 
ments and feelings Indians. 

It was under such circumstances as these that Daniel Boone 
appeared to best advantage as a man of remarkable courage, for- 


DANIEL BOONE. 


29 


titude, coolness and wisdom. The Indians were more than a match 
for him in physical powers, but immeasurably his inferior in cun¬ 
ning and courage. 

Acting upon Boone’s advice the two men made no attempt to 
escape, and seemed well pleased with their new surroundings, 
accompanying the Indians with cheerfulness upon all their hunting 
expeditions. The vigilance of their captors visibly relaxed after a 
day or two. 

Upon the seventh evening of their captivity the camp was 
pitched in a cane brake, where all lay down to rest beside a large 
fire kindled for their comfort. All slept the sleep of men over¬ 
come by fatigue, except Boone, whose eyes were not closed, and 
whose mind was busy planning an escape. When certain that all 
were sound asleep Boone arose cautiously, noiselessly awakened 
Stuart, and told him in hurried whispers of his plan. His com¬ 
panion in silence arose, and accompanied him. With steps quickened 
by hope they hurried away from their sleeping captors, and next 
day reached the camp of their companions. But to their great 
grief it was deserted and plundered. What became of the other 
four hunters of the party is not known. Not a trace of them has 
been discovered to this day. They were probably murdered by 
Indians. 

Certain it is that had sucli a man as Finley escaped and reached 
North Carolina, some record of him would appear in history. But 
his name is never again mentioned after his departure with Boone 
on this excursion. 




3 ^ 


FRONTIERSMEN PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


CHAPTER II. 

BOONE AND STUART-EXPERIENCE WITH HOSTILE INDIANS- 

BROTHER AND FRIEND ARRIVE WITH SUPPLIES-STUART A 

VICTIM TO INDIAN CRUELTY-MYSTERIOUS DISAPPEARANCE 

—UNCOMFORTABLE SURROUNDINGS-BOONE ALONE—RETURN 

OF SQUIRE BOONE-JOURNEY TO ATLANTIC STATES-EMI¬ 
GRATION TO . KENTUCKY-BOONE’s SON KILLED-TREATY 

WITH CHEROKEES-BOONESBOROUGH SETTLED-CAPTURE OF 

GIRLS BY SAVAGES-RESCUE. 

Boone and Stuart were not disheartened at the disappearance 
of their companions, but continued their hunting and explorations; 
using, however, more caution in selecting their camping jilaces, and 
in their daily movements, for their ammunition was running low, 
and Indians were becoming more numerous and more hostile. 

In January following, that is in 1770, these two hunters were 
greatly encouraged and benefited by the arrival of Daniel’s brother 
Squire, who brought them new supplies of ammunition, and news 
from their wives and friends in Carolina. 

The meeting of the brothers is remarkable, when we remem¬ 
ber that it occurred in the dense forests, where there were no roads 
or marks to direct the new comer to his brother, even had he known 
of his whereabouts. Daniel’s brother was accompanied by another 
man, whose name is not given in any of the records. The joy of 
Boone and Stuart knew no bounds at this addition to their com- 


DANIEL BOONE. 


31 

pany. But soon a heavy cloud was to envelope them. As cus¬ 
tomary, they hunted in pairs, Boone and Stuart continuing as asso¬ 
ciates. In one of their expeditions they came suddenly upon a party 
of Indians, who fired upon them. Stuart fell dead, and was scalped 
by the foe. Boone escaped by flight, and rejoined his brother and 
the other hunter. 

A few days afterward the unnamed hunter went out alone, but 
never returned. Boone and Squire searched many days for him, 
yet all in vain. Years afterward a skeleton was discovered in that 
neighborhood, in the woods, and tradition says it was that of the 
lost hunter. ' 

Let the reader picture to himself the lonely condition of the 
two brothers, separated as they were by several hundred miles from 
friends and civilization; surrounded by wild beasts and savages; 
roaming through a trackless forest; subsisting upon flesh of game, 
and drinking from brooks and creeks; no beds but leaves; no cov¬ 
ering but brush. 

In less than a year six of the eight had disappeared, killed and 
scalped by vengeful and cunning foes. Surely their surroundings 
were appalling, but they faltered not. Had they been but hunters, 
simply men seeking remuneration from the capture and sale of 
skins of wild animals, we could reasonably suppose their trials too 
great for them; but they sought more than a few dollars from the 
sale of peltries. Daniel, at least, was confident that he was explor¬ 
ing the boundaries of a future great State. 

They were not unmindful of the dangers surrounding them. 
Nor were they dead to the emotions excited by thoughts of wife 
and little ones left behind in Carolina. Daniel never hesitated to 
acknowledge that he suffered anxiety on account of his family, and 
their lonely condition. Only a true conception of his great mission 
sustained him. 

It soon became necessary for Squire Boone to return to 


32 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


Carolina for a fresh supply of ammunition. The brothers separated; 
the one to travel alone back to Carolina, the other to battle single- 
handed with his foes. 

He would hunt through the day, and return to his cabin at 
night. But frequently he was compelled to shift his lodging, as he 
discovered unmistakable evidence that his hut had been visited 
during the day“ by the Indians. Some nights he would hide in a 
cane brake, and listen to the yells of Indians as they hunted the 
forest for him. But during all this time he never encountered them. 
In this fact alone we have abundant proof of his coolness and 
sagacity. To be able to elude his pursuers, and yet to continue his 
investigations and hunting operations, is very remarkable. We 
mention one method adopted by Boone to escape detection, which 
illustrates his carefulness and natural tact. The woods were at 
that period filled with a species of nettle, that, when once bent 
down, remained prostrate, and retained the impression of the foot 
In this way, even a turkey could be tracked as easily as through 
snow. This weed Boone always carefully avoided, while the 
Indians, numerous and fearless, would pay no attention to it. 
Thus Boone could determine the number of his enemies and the 
direction in which they were moving. 

Squire Boone returned in July, 1770, with a pack horse 
loaded with all necessary articles. Together they hunted from 
that time until March, 1771, when they returned to the Atlantic 
States after an absence on the part of Daniel of more than two 
years. Of this period, Daniel himself wrote as follows : 

“ In this situation I was constantly exposed to danger and 
death. How unhappy such a situation for a man tormented with 
fear, which is vain if no danger comes, and only augments the 
pain if it does come. It was my happiness to be destitute of this 
afflicting passion, with which I had great reason to be affected. 
The prowling wolves diverted my nocturnal hours with perpetugi 




33 







34 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND iSCOUTS. 

bowlings, and the various species of animals iir-this vast forest, in 
the daytime, were continually in my view. 

“ Thus I was surrounded with plenty in the midst of want, 
I was hajDpy in the midst of dangers and inconveniences. In such 
diversity it was impossible I should be disposed to melancholy. 
No 23opulous city, with all the varieties of commerce and stately 
structures, could afford so much j^leasure to my mind, as the 
beauties of nature I found here. 

“ Thus, through an uninterrupted scene of sylvan pleasures, 
I spent the time until the 27th of July following, when my 
brother, to my great felicity, met me according to apjDointment, 
at our old camjD. Shortly after we left this place, not thinking it 
safe to stay there any longer, and j^roceeded to Cumberland 
River, reconnoitering that part of the country until March, 1771, 
and giving names to the different waters. 

“ Soon after I returned home to my family, with a determina¬ 
tion to bring them as soon as possible to live in Kentucky, which 
I esteemed a second paradise, at the risk of my life and fortune. 

“ I returned safe to my old habitation, and found my family 
in hajopy circumstances.” 

During this two years’ absence, he notes as some of the minor 
discomforts to which he was subjected, that he tasted neither salt, 
sugar, nor bread. 

As we have seen, Boone returned to Carolina early in 1771, 
fully determined to remove to Kentucky. The records are silent 
as to what engaged his attention during the two years next 
succeeding, for it was September 25, 1773, before he started back 
to the frontier. 

He owned a farm on the Yadkin, and probably a purchaser 
was not speedily found. It was not Boone’s intention to return to 
Kentucky alone, or with his own family only. His asjVirations 
were to found a state, or at least establish a colony. Thus much 


DANIEL BOONE. 


35 


time was required to make preparations for removal and to secure 
the company of men necessary to f(.u‘m a colony, or make a settle¬ 
ment capable of resisting successfully the efforts of Indians to 
annihilate it. 

Finally all was ready for the start, and Daniel and his brother 
Squire, accompanied by their wives and children, set out on the 
journey to the West. They took with them cattle and swine. 
Their bedding and baggage was carried by pack horses. The 
men and women went afoot. 

At Powell’s Valley the party was met by another company 
of emigrants bound for the West. This company consisted of 
forty able bodied men, well armed, besides women and children. 

In high spirits the cavalcade pursued its journey. At night 
they found shelter under rude tents constructed of bedquilts 
stretched over poles. About Oct. 6, after being on the road 
less than two weeks, their high hopes were dashed rudely to the 
ground, and sorrow pierced the hearts of many mothers. They, 
at that time, neared a mountain pass known as Cumberland Gap. 
The 3^cung men who drove the cattle, had fallen in the rear of 
the rest of the company several miles, when a party of Indians 
attacked them, killed six of the number, and drove the cattle into 
the woods. One man only escaped to tell the tale of their surprise. 
Among the slain was the eldest son of Daniel Boone. 

Notwithstanding this heavy blow, Boone was in favor of 
continuing the journe}', as was also his brother and a few others. 
The majority were disheartened, and insisted on returning. 

Boone and his brother finally concluded to turn back. They 
continued the retreat forty miles, until they reached Clinch River 
in Southwestern Virginia; here they halted. 

Boone remained with his family at this place until the 6th of 
June, 1774, the next 3'ear. At the solicitation of Governor 
Dunmore, of Virginia, Boone and Michael Stoner started for the 


$6 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


Falls of the Ohio, to conduct a number of surveyors into the 
settlement. This task was completed, and Daniel returned after 
an absence of sixty-two days, having traveled in the meantime, 
800 miles. Immediately upon his return. Governor Dunmore 
appointed Boone to the command of the garrisons, and com¬ 
missioned him captain of militia. He was now nearly forty 3^ears 
of age, and in full vigor of manhood. 

The Indian war which now raged along the frontier is known 
as the Dunmore war, and was brought on by the slaughter of the 
famil}" of Logan, the Mingo chief. The garrisons commanded by 
Captain Boone were contiguous, and situated on the frontier. The 
war was of short duration, and at its close Captain Boone was 
mustered out of service and returned to his family on the Clinch 
River. 

He had now acquired a reputation as a bold and sagacious 
leader. An account of his discoveries passed from village to 
village, and from city to city, until all the country was aroused to 
the beauty and richness of Kentucky. 

Of all the companies organized to occupy the new land, none 
was bolder or more widely or favorably known than that of Col. 
Richard Henderson, a gentleman of education and wealth. 

The plan of this company was to take possession of all that 
vast and fertile country lying between the Ohio, the Kentucky, and 
the Cumberland Rivers. The Cherokee Indians claimed the 
country. The Henderson Company proposed to purchase the title 
of the Cherokees, and under this cover take possession of the land. 
Daniel Boone was selected to negotiate a trade with the Cherokees, 
He was entirely successful in his mission. As a result of Boone’s 
negc tiations. Col. Henderson met the Indians at Fort Watauga, 
on a branch of the Holston River, March 17, 1775, and in 
solemn council received from them a deed to the country, after 
delivering to them a satisfactory consideration in merchandise. 


DANIEL BOONE. 


37 


Daniel Boone was selected to lead a band of hardy men to 
open a road from the Holston to the Kentucky River, and to 
establish a station at the latter place, where Otter Creek 
empties into it. 

This undertaking was dangerous in the extreme, and attended 
with many difficulties. Before the completion of the work the 
company suffered the loss of four men killed and five wounded by 
the Indians, who did not make an open attack, but from time to 
time picked off an unsuspecting workman, 

Boone and his companions reached the Kentucky River about 
the 1st of April, and encamped where Boonesborough now stands. 
At this place and at this date the first settlement of Kentucky 
commenced. 

Boone, in his autobiography, says they were attacked by 
Indians and suffered the loss of one man on the fourth day of their 
arrival. They were not, however, again molested until after the 
fort was completed. On June 14, 1775, they had a fori ready 
for occupancy. 

It is not at all improbable that this same Col. Henderson was 
the cause of Squire Boone’s going to the relief of his brother, as 
has already been narrated in these pages. It is thought by some, 
at least, that when Boone made his long journey in 1769 he was in 
the service and pay of Henderson. 

When the cabins were finished, which was immediately after 
the completion of the fort. Col. Henderson, John Lutterell, and 
Nathaniel Hart, three of the proprietors, arrived at the station, or 
Boonesborough as it was now called. These men were accom¬ 
panied by about forty new settlers, and some of the necessaries of 
civilized life. Boone supposed that he had laid the foundation of 
a great city. 

Soon after, he returned to Clinch River to remove his family 
to the beautiful country he had settled. In September, 1775, he 


K 


\ 

\ 

\ 






















































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































DANIEL BOONE. 


39 


again started from his home in the East for the West, taking his 
family with him. The company consisted of twenty-six men, four 
women, and four or five boys. Mrs. Boone and her daughter were 
among the first six to stand upon the banks of the beautiful Ken¬ 
tucky River. 

Boonesborough became the general rendezvous for all new 
comers. Many of these attached themselves to Boone’s colony, 
and remained with him permanently. Some, however, returned 
to their Eastern homes after having made such surveys as they 
desired. Among the settlers to come to Boonesborough at this 
early day was Col. Richard Calloway, Simon Kenton, John Floyd, 
and the four brothers, McAfee, all known to fame subsequently. 
A good road for pack horses was kept opened from the Holston to 
the Kentucky River. 

The following summer the pioneers at Boonesborough were 
startled by the capture of three young girls belonging to the fort. 
One of them was a daughter of Boone, the other two, Betsy and 
Frances, were daughters of Col. Calloway. Miss Betsy was 
grown, but the others were only about thirteen years of age. 
Mr. Butler, in his “ History of Kentucky,” thus narrates the scene 
as taken from the papers of John Floyd: 

“ The affitir happened late in the afternoon, and the spoilers 
left the canoe on the opposite side of the river, which prevented 
our getting over for some time to pursue them. Next morning by 
daylight we were on the track, but found they had totally pre¬ 
vented our following them by walking some distance apart through 
the thickest cane they could find. We observed their course, 
however, and on which side they had left their sign, and traveled 
upward of thirty miles. We then imagined they would be less 
cautious in traveling, and made a turn in order to cross their trace, 
and had gone but a few miles before we found their tracks in a 
buffalo path. 


40 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


“ Pursuing’ this for the distance of about ten miles, we over¬ 
took them just as they were kindling a fire to cook. Our study 
had been more to get the prisoners without giving their captors 
time to murder thein* after they should discover us, than to kill 
the Indians. 

“We discovered each other nearly at the same time. Four 
of our party fired, and then all rushed upon them, which prevented 
their carrying anything away except one shot gun without any 
ammunition. Mr. Boone and myself had a pretty fair shot just as 
they began to move off. I am well convinced I shot one through. 
The one he shot dropped his gun; mine had none. 

“ The place was very thick with cane, and being so elated on 
recovering the three broken-hearted girls, prevented our making 
any further search. We sent them off without moccasins, and not 
one of them with so much as a knife or a tomahawk.” 

The capture and rescue of the girls was the means of arousing 
the settlers all along the line to the danger they were in; for the 
Indians that carried them off were only a part of the numerous bands 
that then infested the country, and as the news of their fate spread 
rapidly, it put other settlements on their guard. Fortunately, 
however, no further depredations were committed that year, 1776^ 
and Boonesborough enjoyed quiet and prosperity. 












DANIEL BOONE 


41 


CHAPTER III. 

WAR WITH ENGLAND-BOONESBOROUGH BESIEGED BY INDIANS- 

EXPEDITION TO BLUE LICK -BOONE AGAIN TAKEN PRIS¬ 
ONER-SURRENDERS ENTIRE PARTY OF MEN-COURT-MAR¬ 

TIALED, BUT ACQUITTED, AND PROMOTED TO RANK OF 

MAJOR-INDIANS PRESENT TEN PRISONERS TO BRITISH AT 

DETROIT-BOONE COMPELLED TO RETURN TO CHILLICOTHE- 

CEREMONY OF ADOPTION BY INDIAN TRIBE-EXPERIENCES 

DURING CAPTIVITY-ESCAPE-DUQUESNE COMMANDS IN¬ 
DIANS IN A SECOND ATTACK ON BOONESBOROUGH-SUCCESS¬ 

FUL DEFENCE. 

War was now raging in the Colonies with England. Hun¬ 
dreds of men left the wilderness on this account, and returned co the 
Atlantic States, but their places were filled by other emigrants from 
the Colonies, who from time to time came out to the various 
stations, as the forts were called. 

In July of 1777 Boonesborough was reinforced by the arrival 
of forty-five able bodied men. This was a fortunate occurrence. 
The Indians were becoming about this time very annoying. Under 
the leadership of white men in the employ of the British Govern¬ 
ment they were continually harassing the frontier settlements. 
Some of the stations had undergone regular sieges. Boonesborough 
had been besieged in April, and in the conflict to disperse the 
Indians the settlement lost one man killed, and four wounded. The 


42 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


Indians returned to the attack in Jul}^, having been reinforced by 
about two hundred warriors. The siege commenced on the 4th of 
July, a day already historic, and destined to become more so, as we 
in this day do gladly attest. The local historian, Gallagher, relates 
that after a vigorous attack lasting two days and nights, during 
which time the occupants of the fort lost one man killed and four 
wounded, while the enemy’s loss was seven killed, the siege was 
raised, and the Indians fled. The remainder of the year passed 
without further molestation by the Indians. During all the time 
Boone was the master spirit of the settlement. Through his 
management the two formidable attacks of the Indians had been 
successfully repelled. He was not the kind who urged others for¬ 
ward, while he remained behind, an interested but protected'spec¬ 
tator. If dangers were to be braved, he was first to go. This 
spirit was now about to deprive the settlemen*^ of his presence, his 
inspiration, his wisdom. 

Boonesborough had no salt, the supply having been exhausted. 
The only way to replenish their store was to send a party of men 
to Blue Lick, there to make it from salt water. Daniel Boone 
was to head the expedition. 

In January, 1778, the company started. They arrived at their 
destination, and at once set about the task in hand. While here 
Boone went out hunting, and fell in with a band of over one hun¬ 
dred Indian warriors then on their way to attack Boonesborough. 

He undertook to escape, but his pursuers were more fleet than 
he, and he soon found himself a prisoner. This was his second 
experience, the former having already been related in these pages, 
it having occurred about nine years before. The fate of his com¬ 
panions at the Lick was in his hands, but so was the fate of 
Boonesborough, where were his wife and children. It was an hour 
of great consequences. Boone knew the Indian character perfectly. 
He knew his captors would return to their own village to engage 


DANIEL BOONE. 


43 


in a triumphal dance, if they had his fellow salt makers. Other¬ 
wise they would move on to Boonesborough; and dark, indeed, and 
fearful in the extreme, would be the fate of the Innocent ones there. 
Boone surrendered his entire party of twenty-seven men on the 
condition that they should have life and good treatment. Both con¬ 
ditions were faithfully kept. Here Boone’s sagacity appears to good 
advantage. 

It is said by some writers that Boone was severely censured for 
his conduct at this time. It was of course optional with him to 
lead his captors back to the Lick, or follow them as prisoner, on to 
Boonesborough. Having deliberately chosen the latter alternative, 
he was censured and court martialed. The court, however, returned 
a verdict of not guilty, and that it was a righteous decision every 
one will agree. It certainly were far better that the few men should 
endure temporary captivity than that an entire settlement with its 
women and children, should be given over to Indian cruelty. 

Boone and his men, closely guarded by their captors, set out 
on a march for the Indian camping ground, old Chillicothe, on the 
Little Miami. The weather was bad, cold rain falling most of the 
time, but after three days they reached the end of their journey. 
During this tramp the prisoners fared just as well as their guard. 
It is pleasant to know that in this instance the savages were true to 
their plighted word. 

The hardest part of the experience of Boone and his men was 
the very close confinement to which they were now subjected; but 
that was far preferable to the torture most frequently visited upon 
prisoners. 

For Boone especially, the Indians felt a strong attachment. He 
was careful not to annoy them, and appeared to be perfectly recon¬ 
ciled to his captivity. No doubt, also, his exploits and remarkable 
courage, displayed on previous occasions, were known to them, and 
excited their admiration. 


44 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


Detroit at that time was a British army post. Boone and ten 
of his men were taken to Detroit. The ten men were presented to 
the officer in command of the garrison, who received them kindly, 
and treated them well. Boone, however, was not presented. The 
Indians were jealous of him. Several gentlemen of Detroit were 
anxious to have him in their possession, but the Indians persistently 
refused all offers. The British commander proposed to buy Boone’s 
freedom with a large ransom, but his offers, too, were spurned. We 
may imagine that it was with feelings of disappointment Boone 
saw his captors preparing to return to Chillicothe, while he was yet 
in their power. He was compelled to accompany them on their 
return march, which occupied fifteen days. 

Mr. Peck, in his account of this period, tells of Boone’s formal 
adoption into the Indian family, which occurred soon after his 
return to Chillicothe. The forms of ceremony are severe and 
ludicrous. The hair of the head is plucked, except a tuft three or 
four inches in diameter on the crown. This is called the scalp lock, 
and is dressed in ribbons and feathers. The candidate is then 
stripped, and taken into a river and thoroughly washed by squaws. 
The object of this washing is to get out the white blood. The next 
step is a meeting in the council house, where the chief recounts the 
daring deeds performed by the candidate, and enlarges upon the 
honors about to be conferred. Then the face and head are painted, 
the whole ceremony concluding by a great feast and smoking. 

Boone was now an Indian, outwardly at least, and he pretended 
to be an Indian in spirit. But how he must have longed to return 
to his wife and little ones, away out in the wilderness in Kentucky! 
A less brave man would have died of sheer grief. But no out¬ 
ward sign indicated the inward emotion. Boone accompanied the 
Indians in all their sports. He measured strength with them in 
games; he engaged in shooting matches; he paddled canoes with 
them, but in all he was careful to let them excel. His policy was 


DANIEL BOONE. 


45 


to please them in all things, and annoy them in none. He knew 
he could afford to stoop to conquer. 

It was now June. A band of the Indians went to the Lick 
to make salt. Boone was taken with them. His time was now 
wholly occupied in drudgery. He was kept constantly at work at 
the kettles. He longed to escape, but no opportunity presented 
itself. Finally a supply of salt was obtained, and the party set out 
for Chillicothe. How sad the condition of the brave pioneer! His 
thoughts were of Boonesborough, from which he was marching 
rapidly, instead of toward it, as he fondly desired. His fears and 
anxieties grew to be insupportable when he arrived at Chillicothe 
and found four hundred and fifty warriors painted for battle and 
well armed, just ready to start for Boonesborough! 

Boonesborough was distant one hundred and sixty miles. To 
escape and reach the fort before the warriors, was the consuming 
desire of Boone. 

Next morning he arose as usual, and went out to hunt. He 
did not return that day or the next. When out of sight and hear¬ 
ing, he sped along with all the swiftness of which he was capable. 
For five days he tramped steadily on. He did not stop to kill 
game, nor to cook food. He had covered up in his blanket one 
meal before he left the village. This was all he ate until the fort 
was reached. The settlement was not looking for an attack, and 
the fort was in no condition to resist the Indians, but under Boone’s 
management everything was soon put in a condition to successfully 
resist them. 

Another prisoner escaped the day after Boone left Chillicothe. 
He reached Boonesborough when the garrison were hourly expect¬ 
ing the assault. He brought word that the meditated movements 
of the Indians had been postponed on account of Boone’s escape. 
It was not, however, wise to relax vigilance on that account, for 
Indian spies were thick in the settlement, ready to convey to the 


4 ^ FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


waiting warriors any carelessness on the part of the settlers. 
Extreme caution must be used instead. 

About the ist of August, when the tedious watching for an 
attack had become so irksome as to cause the garrison to relax their 
vigilance, Boone determined to take the aggressive. In company 
with nineteen men he left the fort, and moved rapidly toward the 
Indian towns on the Scioto. When within four or five miles of 
the village he intended to surprise and capture, he met a band of 
thirty Indian warriors. An engagement at once ensued, in which 
the Indians were routed with the loss of one warrior killed; two 
other men were wounded. Boone’s company also captured three 
horses, and all the camping utensils of the Indians. 

He now learned that the company he had defeated was a 
detachment of a larger force then hastening on to attack Boones- 
borough. He Immediately set out to overtake and pass the 
marauders. After forced marches through six days, he came to 
the attacking party and successfully passed them. The next, or 
seventh day, he arrived at the fort. 

The day following, when the enemy appeared before the fort, 
judge of Boone’s surprise to find them under command of Capt. 
Duquesne, and several other Canadians, and several distinguished 
chiefs. The British flag floated before them. The number of the 
force, and the skill and courage of the commanders, were well 
calculated to strike terror to the hearts of the little garrison. Thev 
were, however, animated to a stubborn defense by the knowledge 
that death awaited them on surrender. The commander of the 
enemy demanded possession of the fort in the name of His 
Britannic Majesty. This demand was received without any 
apparent alarm, and Boone requested two days for consideration. 
This was granted by Duquesne. 

Let us now look at the condition of the garrison. When 
Boone assembled the men for consultation, only fifty responded. 


DANIEL BOONE. 


47 


What could fifty men do against the hundreds on the outside? The 
fort was ill-prepared to endure a siege. But when the little garri¬ 
son remembered that five hundred remorseless savages awaited 
them, if they surrendered, they determined to die in defense of 
the fort, rather than be made subjects of Indian torture. Their 
decision was duly announced to the commander of the enemy, who 
received the refusal to surrender with evident disappointment. 

Duquesne now proposed other terms. They were of so favor¬ 
able a character that Boone agreed to meet the commander and 
arrange terms of capitulation. But when he and eight of his men 
were in the camp of the enemy for this purpose, they soon dis¬ 
covered by the motions of the savages that nothing but ill could 
come to them by surrender. The treaty was terminated suddenly. 
The men regained the fort, and closed the gates. They were 
none too soon. A heavy fire was at once opened upon them. 

But the garrison fired with deadly aim and great rapidity. 
The attack that was first made in force, and with intent to scale 
the walls and carry the position by storm, now changed, and con¬ 
sisted of random shots from behind trees, and other convenient 
breastworks. Finding his men were being killed, while the garri¬ 
son appeared to be as numerous as ever, and believing the fort could 
not be taken by storm, Duquesne resorted to strategy. His plan 
was to undermine the fort, and blow it up. A fortunate circum¬ 
stance saved the besieged company this fate. In digging the mine, 
the earth excavated was thrown into the river. This discolored the 
water. This unusual appearance of the water did not escape 
Boone’s eye. He was quick to guess the cause, and equally quick 
to devise a plan to defeat this movement of the commander of 
the enemy. 

Boone at once set a party to digging a deep trench along that 
side of the fort. This would of course prevent the plan of the 
British officer from being carried out. He ordered the dirt dug out 


/}.8 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS. AA D SCOUTS. 


to be thrown over the walls. His theory proved correct; for whe*. 
the Commander saw these counter preparations, he at once gave up 
his work of undermining. 

For nine days the siege lasted. But the losses were principally 
with the attacking party. At the end of that time Duquesne 
departed, very much disgusted at his failure. Only two men of the 
fort were killed. Duquesne lost thirty-seven killed, but the number 
of his wounded is not known. 

This was the last formidable attack upon Boonesborough. The 
settlement had proven its bravery and power of resistance. There 
were, however, other causes of freedom from molestation by the 
Indians, one of which was that other towns had sprung up, and these 
were selected to receive the fury of the assaults that before were 
reserved for Boonesborough. 

Boone was disappointed when he arrived at Boonesborough 
after his escape from Chillicothe. He expected to meet his wife 
and family. They were not there. Supposing him to have been 
killed when captured at Blue Lick, they had returned to their 
friends in Carolina. As soon, therefore, as the war ceased, he 
returned to the Atlantic States to meet his family and bring them 
again to the Kentucky River. 

He started late in the autumn of 1778, and returned to 
Kentucky with his family early the following spring. 

He was followed by scores of emigrants. He set a good 
example before all, by entering upon the close and careful cultiva¬ 
tion of his farm. His influence among the settlers was almost 
unbounded. All looked upon him as founder of the State. They 
respected him for his many admirable qualities of head and heart. 
He was a constant source of inspiration to all. 

It was about this time that Boone was court-martialed for his 
surrender at Blue Lick. Upon his acquittal he was promoted to 
Major, 


DANIEL BOONE. 


49 


We are now to record a very sad incident in Major Boone’s 
life. In 1779 he procured about twenty thousand dollars in paper 
money, by sale of his property, with which he intended to purchase 
land warrants for Kentucky land. He set out on a journey from 
Kentucky to Richmond, Va., to make his purchase. On the road 
he was robbed of all he had. To add to his grief, he was 
custodian of funds for many of his friends, to be used for the same 
purpose. All this was stolen, too. It is pleasant to know, how¬ 
ever, that he was entirely exonerated from all blame. 









\ 



50 









































DANIEL BOONE, 


5 ^ 


CHAPTER IV. 

BOONE AS LIEUT.-COL.—SIEGE OF BRYANT’s STATION—INDIAN 

AMBUSCADE-SIXTY-FOUR KENTUCKIANS KILLED-COL. 

LOGAN-LAND PURCHASES-REWARD FOR MILITARY SER¬ 
VICES-NARROW ESCAPE-LOSS OF PROPERTY-IN EXILE. 

Nothing further of importance occurred in Daniel Boone’s 
history, outside of the daily routine of duties belonging to the founder 
of a new settlement, until late in 1780. At that time, he and a 
brother, his brother Squire, probably, though the record does not 
mention his name, went to Blue Lick to get salt. While there, 
they were attacked by Indians, and Boone’s brother fell, killed by 
the foe. He himself fled and escaped, though closely pursued by 
the enemy, who had the assistance of a dog. Boone succeeded in 
killing the dog, which assisted him much in avoiding his pursuers. 

This year, 1780, the militia of Kentucky was thoroughly 
organized, and Major Boone was promoted to Lieut.-Col. He was, 
therefore, ever after that known as Colonel Boone. 

In August of the next year, 1781, a large army of Indians from 
Chillicothe, laid siege to Bryant’s Station, which was a post on 
the road from Lexington to Maysville. The garrison repulsed the 
enemy with great loss to the attacking party. As soon as news of 
the siege reached Boonesborough, Colonel Boone, ever ready to 
lend assistance to those in need, accompanied by his brother 
Samuel and his son Israel, started to succor the besieged fort, 


52 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


Other parties of men also came from the surrounding country, so a 
body of one hundred and eighty men came as reinforcements. 
These arrived just after the Indians had retreated. A council of 
war was called, and the decision was to pursue the fleeing enemy. 
Colonel Logan was known to be approaching with a large body 
of men. Wisdom would have dictated a delay until he should 
arrive. The Indians evidently desired to draw the pursuing army 
into ambush, as they left abundant evidence of their route. 
Colonel Boone especially called attention to the many signs, that 
the enemy were fleeing for the purpose of ensnaring their pur¬ 
suers. The Kentuckians had among their number many who 
were not as experienced in the Indian method of warfare as was 
Colonel Boone, and their impetuosity prevailed against his better 
and cooler judgment. Bitter was the fruit of their rashness! 

The enemy were not overtaken until the Blue Lick was 
reached. A few straggling Indians were seen on the hills beyond. 
The Kentuckians halted, and held a council. Colonel Boone 
advised great caution. He said he knew the ground well, and 
much feared the Indians were lying in ambush. He believed they 
were numerous and ready for battle. He thought that the enemy 
were posted just ahead, in such a manner that the Kentuckians, if 
moved forward, would be attacked from the front and both sides at 
once. He advised a delay until Logan should arrive with reinforce¬ 
ments. But if that was not done, a part of their company should 
make a detour and attack the enemy in the rear, while the rest 
attacked the front. But while the matter was under discussion. 
Major McGary dashed into the river on horseback, calling on all 
who were not cowards to follow him. Immediately, the whole 
company moved forward with enthusiasm, yet without order and 
with no commander, in fact. As Boone had said, the enemy were 
posted below a ridge, that stretched out between two ravines that 
finally united in one. In these ravines were the Indians hidden 


DANIEL BOONE. 


5 ^ 

from view by thick brush. The Kentuckians were on the ridge, 
exposed to tiie cross fire of the savages, and without any protection. 
Huddled together in confusion they were slaughtered like sheep, 
while the Indians escaped unhurt until they emerged from the 
ravines. The Kentuckians held their ground against fearful odds. 
The officers seemed to have been set apart as especial marks for 
the Indians’ fire. Early in the engagement, Colonels Todd and 
Lugg were killed, as also were Harland and McBride, and Colonel 
Boone’s son, Israel. 

To escape being completely surrounded, the Kentuckians 
finally fled back across the river. Here was an opportunity which 
a savage heart could not let pass. The Indians rushed upon the 
fleeing men, and with their tomahawks cut many down ere they 
reached the river, while those who reached the water and were 
struggling to cross, were mercilessly shot. Colonel Boone was 
surrounded. His boy lay before him dead; his dearest friends 
were killed. Hundreds of Indians were between him and the 
ford; death was near, and seemed certain to claim him. He knew 
every foot of the ground, and made a dash for liberty. He 
escaped the whistling bullets sent after him, and baffled every 
attempt to head him off. He crossed the river below the ford by 
jwimming, and escaped to Bryant’s Station. The loss of the whites 
was sixty killed. The Indians lost sixty-four. To make the 
lumber even they afterward slew four of their prisoners. 

In the meantime Logan arrived with those who had escaped 
the slaughter at Blue Lick. He found himself at the head of four 
hundred and fifty men. With Colonel Boone he marched to the 
field, hoping to find the enemy awaiting his coming, but the field 
was deserted. They remained only to bury the slain. This done, 
the expedition returned to Bryant Station and there disbanded. 

Kentucky for a time enjoyed rest from Indian hostilities. 

Colonel Boone now devoted himself zealously to the cultivation 


54 PJ^ONT/EJiSMEAr, P/ONEEES, AND SCOUTS. 

of the soil. He was able to purchase several very valuable tracts of 
land. He obtained money to make these purchases from Virginia, 
as compensation for his military services in Kentucky, for the latter 
territory was still part of the domain of Virginia. 

It was about this time that Boone had an adventure with a 
small band of Indians, who came to his house to kidnap him. 

The facts of this adventure were narrated by Boone himself 
Just before his death, the occasion being the marriage feast of his 
granddaughter, and may therefore be relied upon as correct. 

Colonel Boone devoted a part of his farm to the cultivation of 
tobacco. The patch was so small, however, that he was able to at¬ 
tend to the curing of the weed himself. The dry house was built 
of logs, and covered by a thatch roof made of rails and grass. 
When ripe, the tobacco stalks were gathered and hung up in this dry 
house upon poles stretching from side to side, and placed so as to 
form tiers one above another. The tobacco was split in the stalk 
and hung over these poles, the leaves hanging down. Here it was 
left till thoroughly dried. Every day or two it was necessary to 
change the position of the various stalks, so that all might cure 
alike. Colonel Boone was engaged in this part of the work when 
he became aware of the presence of his enemy. One after another 
stepped into the little dry house, until four large, stout Indians were 
inside the hut. Escape seemed out of the question. Colonel Boone 
was perched upon the poles overhead, changing the tobacco, 
some of which was already well dried. His would-be captors were 
on the ground, between him and the door. The dry house was too 
far away from his cabin to make a cry for help of any avail. But 
though thus completely hemmed in, his wits did not fail him. 

With a low, peculiar chuckle, the Indians said: “Now, Boone, 
we got you. You no get away. Take you to Chillicothe. You 
no cheat any more!” 

Boone saw at once they were in earnest. Their guns were 


DAMikL BOOATB, 


55 


loaded and pointed at his breast. He at once recognized them as 
some of his old friends, with whom he had hunted and fished when 
last a captive in their hands. 

“Ah, my friends,” said he, “I am glad to see you!” apparently 
not noticing their threats to carry him off. He continued his work 
with the tobacco. They grew impatient, and said: 

“Boone, come down. We go away now. Come down! ” 

“Yes, yes,” he said, “I go too. You watch me. I fix tobacco, 
then I’ll go.” 

All this time he was rapidly planning a way of escape, and seek¬ 
ing to persuade them to await his movements. 

“Me take tobacco,” he said. That pleased them, and he be¬ 
gan to gather up the stalks, selecting that which was driest and most 
brittle. They were now completely off their guard, and watched 
his movements with eager, upturned faces. He continued to gather 
in the tobacco, and managed to crush some of it to quite a fine 
powder. Suddenly he dropped upon them, skillfully throwing the 
crushed leaves into their faces, eyes and mouths. The strategy was 
entirely successful. They rolled together on the floor, spitting, 
sputtering, nearly blinded and suffocated. Colonel Boone dashed 
out the door and ran toward his cabin, where his trusty rifle await¬ 
ed him. Though having so narrow an escape, after running about 
fifteen yards, he stopped and looked back to see what his Indian 
friends were doing. They were crawling out of the dry house, 
cursing Boone as a rogue, and themselves as fools. 

In later years Boone would relate this experience with great 
glee, considering it one of his neatest tricks played upon the sav¬ 
ages. Indeed it was. Few men, if any, would have escaped with 
such odds against them. 

We now approach a sad part of Colonel Boone’s history. It 
is the year 1790—twenty-one years since Daniel Boone left his 
North Carolina home to explore the then unknown regions of what 


56 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


is now the beautiful, populous, and wealthy State of Kentucky. We 
have, in the foregoing pages, learned of the almost incredible 
hardships which the pioneer endured while making these first nec¬ 
essary explorations. We have followed him through the many 
bitter Indian wars, and found him in the thickest of the fight, the 
bravest of the brave. We have paused to see him tenderly lay 
away two sons, both victims of Indian hate. We have followed 
him in his captivity, and admired his fortitude, his sagacity, his de¬ 
votion to his companions in exertions to save his frontier settle¬ 
ment from surprise and capture. We have found him taking the 
money received from the State of Virginia in compensation for his 
services as an officer of her militia, and with it purchasing land near 
his own loved Boonesborough. It would seem that man could not 
be found so lost to all feelings of justice as to deprive this venerable 
pioneer of his well-earned possessions. But, alas, for human 
nature! There were those who would take advantage of igno¬ 
rance, or trusting, simple-hearted mankind. 

For various reasons, which we need not enumerate here, title 
to land in Kentucky in that day was very imperfect. Colonel 
Boone never gave much attention to land titles. Indeed, the com¬ 
plications were of such a nature that only an expert could unravel 
them. Thus it came about that all his property was taken away 
from him through the technicality of law. The beautiful farm near 
Boonesborough went with the rest. When nearly sixty years of 
age, the best part of his life behind him, Colonel Boone found him¬ 
self virtually banished from a State which he had, in one sense, 
made, and enriched with his own blood. 

A sadder picture cannot be painted, than that of this pioneer, 
soldier and patriarch turning his back upon home, and wandering 
back to the East to find an abiding place among strangers. 

He finally settled on the Kenhawa River, in Virginia, near 
Point Pleasant. Here he remained several years. 


DANIEL BOONE 


57 


CHAPTER V. 

s 

HUNTERS ON THE MISSOURI-BOONE WELCOMED BY THE GOVER¬ 
NOR— LAND GRANTED-THE GREAT NATURALIST, AUDUBON, 

VISITS BOONE-ANECDOTE RELATED BY AUDUBON-AUDU- 

BON’s description of BOONE-A VICTIM OF LAW-KENTUCKY 

ACKNOWLEDGES THE JUSTICE OF BOONE’s CLAIM—DEATH OF 

BOONE’s wife-BOONE’s last days -KENTUCKY HONORS 

HER ILLUSTRIOUS DEAD. 

Another portion of the West was now being explored. Hunters 
had crossed the Mississippi River, and were finding game and 
gain along the banks of the Missouri. These men brought to 
Colonel Boone glowing accounts of this new West. They told of 
peace and quiet, and abundance of game in that region. They 
pictured it as a land where lawyers and law suits were unknown. 
This latter recommendation was a pleasant subject of contempla¬ 
tion by Colonel Boone. As might be guessed from what we 
have learned of Colonel Boone’s feelings and desires, his tastes and 
habits, he did not hesitate long. In October, 1797, he loaded up 
his pack horses and started for what is now Missouri, but what 
was then Upper Louisiana, and which at that time belonged to 
Spain. 

So important a personage could not fail to be known by 
reputation to those who had never seen him. A knowledge of 
his exploits had gone before him. When he arrived at St. Louis, 



INDIAN WAR DANCE. 


5 ^^ 






















































DANIEL BOONE 


59 


he was met by the Governor of the Territory, who told him he 
should have ample portions of land for himself and family. His 
first residence was about forty-five miles west of St. Louis, in the 
district of St. Charles. He lived here with his son Daniel M. 
until 1S04, when he removed to his youngest son’s home, and 
remained with him until 1810, when he removed to the home of 
his son-in-law, Flanders Callaway. 

July II, 1800, he was commissioned commandant of the 
Femme Osage District, by Lieutenant-Governor Don Charles D. 
Delassus. His duties were both civil and military, which he 
exercised to the satisfaction of all concerned until the territory was 
purchased by the U. S. Government. This occurred in 1803. 
The Territory, however, was not admitted into the Union until 1812. 

It was during his residence in Missouri, that Colonel Boone 
was visited by the great naturalist, J. J. Audubon. The visit was 
made probably in 1810. Mr. Audubon, in his Ornithological 
Biography, speaks with undisguised satisfaction of the pleasure this 
visit afforded him. He relates the following incidents as occurring 
while he was at Boone’s house. 

Colonel Boone had taken his guest for a ramble through the 
woods. His rifle was carried along to bring down any chance 
game. Presently a squirrel was discovered high up in a tree near 
by. Colonel Boone said he would bring the squirrel down with¬ 
out shooting it, by a process known as “ barking.” He requested 
Audubon to watch the squirrel carefully, and notice particularly 
that it lay stretched out on a small limb. The rifle was quickly 
loaded, and brought to bear on the game. Suddenly there was a 
flash, and a sharp, ringing report. The squirrel seemed to leap in 
the air, and fell to the ground dead, but no bullet had struck it! 
Audubon noticed that the rifle ball struck the limb just below the 
squirrel. Colonel Boone then explained that the concussion caused 
the squirrel’s death. This was known as “ barking,” and only 


6o 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


good marksmen could perform the feat. The rifle used was large 
and heavy, and the ball proportionately large. The limb on which 
the squirrel lay was shivered. Many other squirrels were killed 
in the same way that day. 

This distinguished writer gives the following description of 
his remarkable host: 

“ The stature and general appearance of this wanderer of the 
Western forests, approached the gigantic. His chest was broad 
and prominent; his muscular powers displayed themselves in every 
limb; his countenance gave indication of his great courage, enter¬ 
prise, and perseverance; and when he spoke, the very motion of 
his lips brought the impression that whatever he uttered could not 
be otherwise than strictly true. I undressed, while he merely took 
off his hunting shirt, and arranged a few folds of blankets on the 
floor, choosing rather to lie there, as he observed, than on the 
softest bed.” 

In consideration of his services as commandant of the district, 
Spain gave Colonel Boone 8,500 acres of land. To perfect his 
title to this grant, he should have obtained from the immediate 
representative of the Crown, then residing at New Orleans, a 
confirmation of the deed. It was also necessary that he should 
reside on the land thus granted. Neither of these conditions were 
complied with. When the United States obtained possession of 
the Territory, the commission appointed to adjust all claims, found 
that the law prevented their admitting the claim of Colonel Boone, 
as the conditions of the original grant had not been complied with. 
Thus we see him a second time deprived of his property through 
technicalities. 

He found his residence in Missouri very agreeable. He con¬ 
tinued to hunt and trap in the season of such work. From the 
proceeds of this business he secured sufficient money to cancel some 
debts he was unable to pay when he left Kentucky. He made a 


DANIEL BOONE. 


6l 


journey back to that State for the purpose of cancelling these 
obligations. 

It is said, when this was done, he remarked to a circle of old 
friends who had come to greet him: “Now I am ready and willing 
to die. I am relieved of a burden that has long oppressed me. 
I have paid all .my debts, and no one will say when I am gone, 
‘Boone was a dishonest man.’ I am perfectly willing to die.” 

He returned to Missouri, and continued his hunting. He was 
nearly always accompanied in these expeditions by a negro servant 
boy. In one of these excursions* he was attacked by a band of 
Osage Indians, but he speedily routed them. Another time, he 
was alone. A large body of Indians encamped in his immediate 
vicinity. For twenty days he was compelled to secrete himself. 
He could cook his food only at night. In the daytime the Indians 
would have been led to him by the smoke from his fire. 

Another time, while hunting he fell sick, and for many days 
was unable to move about. He thought he would die. His 
attendant was his servant, a negro boy. To him he gave very 
minute account of how and where he desired to be buried. He 
also made arrangement for the disposal of his rifle, his jDeltries, and 
his blankets. Fortunately, he recovered. 

In 1812 Colonel Boone tried to obtain an act of Congress con¬ 
firming him in his title to the land granted by Spain. He 
applied to the Legislature of Kentucky for an indorsement, and 
assistance in obtaining the desired confirmation. The following 
preamble and resolutions were unanimously adopted by tjie Legis¬ 
lature, January, 1812: 

“ The Legislature of Kentucky, taking into view the many 
eminent services rendered by Col. Boone, in exploring and settling 
the Western country, from which great advantages have resulted, 
not only to this State, but to his country in general; and that from 
circumstances over which he had no control, he is now reduced to 


62 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS 


poverty, not having, so far as appears, an acre of land of the 
vast territory he has been a great instrument in peopling; believ¬ 
ing, also, that it is as unjust as it is impolitic, that useful enterprise 
and eminent services should go unrewarded by a government 
where merit confers the only distinction; and having sufficient 
reason to believe that a grant of ten thousand acres of land, which 
he claims in Upper Louisiana, would have been confirmed by the 
Spanish government, had not said territory passed, by cession, into 
the hands of the General Government; wherefore, 

“ Resolved^ By the General Assembly of the Commonwealth of 
Kentucky,—that our Senators in Congress be requested to make 
use of their exertions to p’-ocure a grant of land in said territory to 
said Boone, either the ten thousand acres to which he appears to 
have an equitable claim, from the grounds set forth to this Legis¬ 
lature, by way of confirmation, or to such quantity, in such place, 
as shall be deemed most advisable, by way of donation.” 

His memorial to Congress received the earnest support of such 
men as Judge Coburn, Joseph Vance, and Judge Burnett. 

On Dec. 24, 1813, the Committee on Public Lands made a 
report on the memorial. The justice of the claim was admitted, 
but the committee recommended that he receive one thousand 
arpents, or 850 acres, in Upper Louisiana. The injustice of this 
decision can be seen when it is remembered that every settler in 
Upper Louisiana was entitled to that much! The bill confirming 
his title to this land was passed Feb. 10, 1814, just as Boone 
reached his eightieth year. 

In the meantime sorrow had come to Colonel Boone’s house¬ 
hold. His wife died March, 1813, aged seventy-six. This was a 
bereavement indeed, for he was tenderly attached to her. For 
nearly sixty years she had cheered him in his severe struggles 
against adversity. His affectionate disposition was rudely shocked 
by this loss. 


DANIEL BOONE, 


63 


From this time on he made his home with his children; some¬ 
times with one, and sometimes with another. He was greatly 
beloved by his grandchildren and great grandchildren, for he lived 
to see his descendants of the fifth generation. He in return was 
very fond of his children and their offspring, and found much 
pleasure in their society. He was no longer able to do hard work, 
yet he was never idle. His time was occupied in making powder 
horns for his gi'andchildren and for his neighbors. He took great 
delight in repairing rifles. In this work he was very expert. While 
thus engaged he would recall the pleasure of other years, and in 
memory live over the days when he found real enjoyment in the 
excitement of the chase. 

In the summer of 1820, Chester Harding, a celebrated portrait 
painter, visited Colonel Boone for the express purpose of getting 
his portrait on canvas. The Colonel was not able to sit alone, 
owing to his great age, and consequent feebleness. He was sup¬ 
ported, while the artist painted, by his friend. Rev. J. E. Welsh. 
This portrait is the one that has since been copied in so many 
engravings. In this portrait he is represented in a hunting dress, 
and a large knife gleams from his belt. The face is wan and pale, 
the hair perfectly white, and the eyes a bright blue. The expres¬ 
sion of the countenance is very pleasing, having nothing of that 
austerity one would expect to find in such a subject. 

In September, 1820, Colonel Boone was attacked by a fever, 
but recovered sufficiently to visit his son. Major Nathan Boone. 
Here he suffered a relapse. After an illness of three days he died. 
Sept. 26, 1820, in the 86th year of his age. 

The news of his death was received with profound sorrow. 
The Legislature of Missouri was in session at the time. A resolu¬ 
tion was passed requiring the members to wear a badge of mourn¬ 
ing for twenty days. The Legislature then adjourned for one day, 
as a token of respect for the distinguished citizen of that State. 


64 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


He was buried in a coffin that had been prepared at his own 
direction several years before. Such a custom was not uncommon 
in those days. He was buried in a grave njsxt to that of his wife. 

The funeral attracted wide attention. Hundreds of people 
came from the surrounding country to be present at his interment. 
He was not, however, yet at his final resting place. Tv/enty-five 
years afterward the citizens of Frankfort, Kentucky, prepared a 
cemetery to receive his ashes. Having obtained the consent of 
the family, the remains of Colonel Boone and his wife were 
removed from Missouri and placed in this cemetery near Frank¬ 
fort. This reinterment occurred Aug. 20, 1845. 

The ceremony was more grand and imposing than the first 
burial. Some of Boone’s contemporaries were present. They had 
come from all parts of the State. The descendants of the illustrious 
man were numerous, and were in front of the procession. The 
hearse was decorated with forest evergreens and white lilies. The 
address was delivered by Mr. Crittenden. Not only did Kentucky 
thus honor the hero, but in the assembly gathered that day were 
hundreds of people from neighboring States. Twenty-five years 
had elapsed since Daniel Boone had ceased to live, yet his fame 
had moved grandly forward, increasing with the flight of years, 
until it stood, a lofty monument, attracting the gaze of distant States. 
At this writing nearly forty years have passed away since that 
second grand funeral, and yet the fame of Daniel Boone grows. 
The nation, which, when he wandered in the trackless forests of 
Kentucky, was unheard of, to-day numbers over fifty million souls, 
and yet there is no nook or corner of this vast land where the name 
of Daniel Boone is not known and reverenced. Since he lived, 
hundreds of men have come upon the stage of action, have acted 
their parts nobly, have passed off, honored and wept, yet no name 
has been inscribed on Fame’s fair tablet, that has by its brightness 
the luster o.f Boone’s. His mission and his character were 



DANIEL BOONE 


65 


unique. Before he came there was none like him; since he has 
gone no one has arisen to be compared to him. 

It was fitting that Kentucky should be his final resting place. 
In 1790 he left it a penniless wanderer, cheated out of his posses¬ 
sions. In 1845 comes back in triumph to receive the homage 
due him in other years! Other heroes have monuments of wood 
and stone, which perish under the tread of time. Boone’s monu¬ 
ment is Kentucky! As long as the nation endures, will his monu¬ 
ment last! 

There does not come to us a breath of aspersion of his char¬ 
acter. Against his name is no blot. In every relation of life he 
was faithful and pure. 

A remarkable fact in his history is that he was never wounded 
in battle. Like Washington, he seems to have had a charmed life, 
proof against the most skillful marksman. 

Daniel Boone was pioneer, patriot, patriarch, and prince! 



ft 





EARLY PIONEERS, 


V 


66 
































































































































































































































































































































r 








68 


CRAWFORD’S ATTACK ON THE INDIANS 



























































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































LIFE OF COL. WILLIAM CRAWFORD, 

SOLDIER, PATRIOT, AND MARTTR. 


CHAPTER I. 

FRIENDSHIP WITH WASHINGTON-YOUTHFUL PASTIMES—COMMIS¬ 
SIONED LIEUTENANT FOR BRAVERY-PROMOTED TO CAPTAIN 

-SEEKS A HOME-ENTERS THE COLONIAL ARMY -CAM¬ 
PAIGNS AGAINST THE INDIANS-THE BATTLE-RETREAT- 

CRAWFORD MISSING. 

George Washington was scrupulously careful in selecting his 
associates, and especially so in forming intimate friendships. Ever 
courteous, kind, and even sympathetic, he nevertheless believed in 
social caste, and lived in accordance with his belief. He thought 
too much of his moral character to be defiled by “ evil communica¬ 
tions ; ” understood too well the intellectual advantages of in¬ 
telligent company to permit himself, long at a time, to be found 
in any other ; and possessed such social qualities as endeared him 
to the finest natures. 

We then can- form some conception of the true character 
of Col. William Crawford, the subject of this sketch, when we 

learn that he and Washington were bosom friends and lifelong 

69 



1o FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

companions. They both studied the same branch of learning, viz., 
surveying. They both loved the excitement of the chase in times 
of peace, and a position in the front rank of battle in times of war. 
Although not reared together, they first met when scarcely of age, 
and as often thereafter as the peculiar times in which they lived 
would permit. The two young men contested in athletic sports, 
—wrestled, jumped, rode, shot, and ran races together. Their 
homes were not far distant from each other, hence many, 
indeed, were the adventures and escapades indulged in by the 
promising youths. Washington, by superior abilities, perhaps, 
and the opportunities that fate threw in his way, outstripped his 
companion in after years so far as military and political achieve¬ 
ments were concerned, but never in courage, in manliness, or in 
patriotism. 

Col. Crawford first came into notice as a soldier in the 
year 1755, at the famous battle of Braddock’s Fields. Although 
a private in this fight, his gallantry won for him the rank of 
lieutenant. Soon after this, when Forbes made his attack upon 
Fort Diiquesne, Washington, who had charge of a division, 
selected Crawford as one of his captains. His conduct upon this 
occasion was highly praised by his superior officer. In 1767 he 
concluded to take some steps toward founding for himself a home, 
and acquiring some of the vast territory stretching beyond the 
Alleghenies into the limitless West. He therefore saddled his 
horse and started across the mountains in quest of an abiding place. 
He reached the Youghiogheny River, and upon its banks resolved 
to drive his stake. It was a desolate place, as far as social life was 
concerned, but full of beauty and magnetism to the lover of 
nature and adventure. The exact locality where this intrepid 
pioneer soldier cleared a spot and built his cabin, is where, at 
present, stands the town of Connellsville, Fayette Co., Penn. 

At the breaking out of the Revolution, Col. Crawford, of 


COL. WILLIAM CRA WFORD. 


71 


course, offered his services to his old friend, who had been put in 
charge of the American army. They were gladly accepted, and 
he was given command of forces on the Western frontier. He 
was kept here during most of the war, fighting valiantly against 
both the British and their allied Indians. No other man did more 
for the cause of liberty in keeping back the murderous bands of 
savages. His boldness was remarkable, his perfect knowledge of 
woodcraft unquestionable, and his generalship of the highest type. 

Finally, the news came of the surrender of Cornwallis. The 
army was disbanded, and Col. Crawford returned to the bosom 
of his family, hoping never again to be called into active military 
life. But, since the world always seeks great men, it never being 
necessary for them to seek it, he was not destined to have his 
hopes of settled peace fully realized. 

After the Moravian massacre, which occurred in 1782, the 
various Indian tribes seemed to have vowed eternal vengeance, 
and swept down upon Virginia like whirlwinds. Some families 
were murdered, entire settlements driven like chaff before a 
gale, and too frequently "taken by the relentless tomahawk. 
Something radical must be done. It seemed that savage hate 
stretched far beyond the Muskingum, even into the northern 
boundary of Ohio and Indiana. Sandusky was the chief center of 
hostility, and it was resolved to send an expedition against this 
place, if sufficient force could possibly be secured to make it 
practicable. Appeals were made to the general government. 
The answer came back: “The settlers must defend themselves. 
The government will give its assent, and furnish ammunition ; but 
men it has none.” 

A meeting was therefore called of all pioneers who would 
volunteer to go against the vast hordes of savages in their own 
country. Accordingly, about the 20th of May, a secret conclave 
of rugged border men from Washington and Westmoreland 


7 ^ 


/'RONTIERSMEN, PIONEEhS, AND ^^JODTS. 


counties, was held near the present site of Steubenville, on the 
Ohio. 

A novel assemblage, indeed, when they were all together. 
Vigorous, muscular men every one, with an independent air and 
open, manly countenance. Each man was “ monarch of all he 
surveyed” when at home. iSlo neighbors were near enough to 
challenge his right to the title. 

The loved ones at home had bidden him farewell, scarcely 
expecting to see the familiar form again in this world. Wife and 
baby had stood upon the lonely cabin doorstep, while the brave 
father and husband had discharged his rifle into the air, waved 
an adieu with his coonskin cap, and Anally disappeared in the 
distance. 

One person among all the assemblage—which amounted to 
four hundred and eighty horsemen—requires our special notice. 
He is a man about fifty years of age ; of large form, fine appear¬ 
ance, and military bearing. When he approaches, the rough 
border men giv^ way, and seem to manifest a respect akin to 
reverence. The man is Col. William Crawford. Washington 
has insisted upon his taking the command ; General Irvine has 
urged him again to shoulder the rifle, and three of his relatives 
have agreed to march against Sandusky, provided he will lead. 

Many of the settlers had taken little thought as to who should 
command, but in a short time after reaching their rendezvous, it 
was decided that there were only two men in all the company 
capable of engineering so remarkable and hazardous an under¬ 
taking. Col. David Williamson and Col. William Crawford 
were these two. Good naturedly the men began their balloting, 
which soon resulted in the election of Crawford by a majority of 
five votes. Three rousing cheers were given b}^ all parties for the 
successful candidate, the crowd broke, and the men immediately 
made preparations for their tedious march through the wilder’^ess 


COL. WILLIAM CRA WFOR/K 


73 


It was a bright, sunshiny morning in May, when the cavalcade 
of horsemen filed out of Mingo Bottom for the Northwest. Every 
ranger was anxious for the fray—anxious to speedily annihilate the 
murderous Delawares, Shawnees, and kindred tribes. Very few of 
the company had ever before seen five hundred horsemen together, 
and to their inexperienced eyes it seemed an overwhelming number. 
If one white man could more than match half a dozen Indians (and 
that was generally held to be true), where could the latter ever 
recruit sufficient force to withstand this formidable array? Their 
confidence was supreme—much more than can he said of their force 
after reaching the scene of conflict. 

As has been said, the border men supposed this expedition to 
be a profound secret, except to the whites. Every precaution had 
been taken to prevent its being known among the enemy. But the 
English had suggested to the Indian tribes that had participated in 
the recent massacres along the Virginia border, that they keep a 
sharp lookout for avengers. This the savages did, and just as soon 
as squads of horsemen began to pour into the Mingo Bottom, the 
alarm was given. Scouts were kept as near the rendezvous of the 
whites as possible. Every movement was noted, and reported by 
messenger to the Indian headquarters. The British at Detroit were 
immediately made acquainted with the scheme for vanquishing 
their allies, and resolved to add their power to that of the wily 
savages. Simon Girty and Capt. Elliott—two renegade Ameri¬ 
cans, who figured extensively in the worst Indian battles and mas¬ 
sacres ever indulged in by their bloodthirsty companions—were at 
once notified, and placed in charge of the defence. These men 
were both well skilled in the arts of border warfare. Their 
superiors could scarcely be found. In addition to this, they hated 
their own countrymen with an undying hate, and were always 
rejoiced to have an opportunity to defeat and destroy them. 

As the news was carried to the chiefs and white leaders, of the 



INDIANS’ AMBUSCADE. 


74 
































































COL. WILLIAM CRA WFORD. 


75 


numbers marching against them, every Indian camp and village 
along the border was broken up, and the inhabitants ordered to 
Sandusky. Women and children were sent to places of safety, 
while the braves painted and plumed for a bloody conflict. It was, 
therefore, not strange that Crawford and his force marched on for 
about ten days without seeing a solitary warrior. They had reached 
the banks of the Sandusky, and near the spot where, a year pre¬ 
vious, one of the principal Indian villages had stood, but not a red 
man could now be seen. The guides were perplexed, the Com¬ 
mander scarcly knew what it portended, and the men were becom¬ 
ing impatient for the fight. They determined to move on a short 
distance further, and then, if no “signs” were visible, to turn their 
steps in another direction. It was rightly conjectured by Crawford 
and Major Rose, his first assistant, that the savages were concen¬ 
trating their forces. It was therefore deemed inexpedient by many 
to push too far into the enemy’s stronghold, lest they fall into an 
ambush, and all be ruthlessly murdered when least expecting it. 

A few hours’ march after the consultation at the deserted vil¬ 
lage brought them to the scene of action. 

“ The company of light horse rushed rapidl}" forward, and soon 
reached a beautiful piece of woodland in the midst of the prairie, 
which seemed to invite them out of the fierce heat of the June sun. 
They pause and rest, but finally strike out again into the open 
country. All at once they suddenly come in view of the enemy 
running directly toward them. Aha! Shaken up at last! Listen 
to those yells and whoops! The skulking copperheads! A fleet 
horseman flies to the rear to apprise Crawford, and all at once is 
bustle and confusion.” . 

The two Delaware chiefs. The Pipe and Wingenund, had 
assembled all their warriors, amounting to something over two 
hundred. Shaus-sho-toh., the celebrated chief of the Wyandottes, 
was only a short distance in the rear with four hundred painted 


76 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


braves, while others were pouring in from all quarters. It was, 
indeed, a formidable army for four hundred and eighty whites to 
encounter. However, the rangers, upon receiving the news of 
“ Indians!” jumped to their saddles with a smile of satisfaction not 
seen in the last ten days. 

Crawford and Rose marshaled their forces in excellent order, 
a few hearty words of encouragement were spoken, and the com¬ 
pany advanced to the onslaught. 

The savages had taken up their abode in a thick copse, from 
which the eager border men drove them in hot haste. They 
retreated to another neck of woods, and as the impetuous Americans 
hurried on to the rout, the renegade, Elliott, suddenly appeared 
upon the right flank with a considerable force of savages. The 
stratagem of attacking the whites in the rear was well executed, 
causing some fierce fighting, and a sudden stop of the advance. 
Crawford succeeded, however, in regaining the woods after losing 
a number of men. 

It is said that Major Rose, during this conflict, as also every 
other one, manifested a genius for commanding, of the highest type. 
His coolness was like balm to the excited brain; his excellent judg¬ 
ment turned many a doubtful contest; while his manly courage was 
the remark of all. In fact, with a less gifted aid, Col. Craw¬ 
ford and his expedition would have probably fallen far short of the 
results attained, and perhaps brought destruction to every one 
engaged in it. But Rose, with his gentlemanly manners, rich voice, 
keen black eye, and fine presence, inspired the men to faithful 
execution. 

All the day long, until darkness obscured the vision and made 
the firing uncertain, did the whites and reds engage at “ Battle 
Island.” 

Right skillfully were the brave border men handled by theh 
commanders to the disadvantage of their foes. Although their 


COL. WILLIAM CILW/FORD. 


77 


n».inbers were far less than the enemy, yet their killed and woundcci 
at the close of day was not one-half that of the opposite side. Had 
not the Indians had Girty and Elliott to cheer, to command, to 
maneuvre, their forces would have been completely routed. As it 
was, Crawford remained in possession of the field, while the Indians 
withdrew to safer quarters. 

After a restless night the weary and thirsty soldiers awoke to 
the troubled realities of another fierce and disastrous battle. They 
were in no wise daunted by superior numbers, as long as those 
numbers were made up entirely of red men. But with the morn¬ 
ing of this second day came a large body of horsemen from Detroit. 
Their sabers and armor glittered in the sunlight; their military 
aspect, and apparently large numbers, caused the raw militia from 
Virginia to feel some apprehension for their safety. Then ever and 
anon a squad of painted reds would be seen advancing from an 
unexpected quarter, until the whites realized that their position was 
indeed becoming a perilous one. ’ 

It was resolved by Crawford and his staff to retreat. Accord 
ii gly, in the best of order, the famous homeward march began, 
which at times it seemed utterly impossible ever to complete. Of 
course the British cavalry crowded closely upon their r^ar, while 
bands of savages skulked among the trees, endeavoring to pick off, 
one by one, those covering the retreat. 

At a juncture where it seemed indispensable to have a com¬ 
manding officer in whom the panic-stricken border men had con¬ 
fidence, the news was heralded that Col. Crawford was missing. 
A number had straggled off in the darkness, but when it was 
announced that the intrepid commander was gone—probably 
captured—all hearts sank in despair. Col. Williamson, however. 
Immediately took command, and, ably assisted by Major Rose, 
succeeded in keeping the men together until they had reached the 
present site of Crestline, Ohio. Here the British and savages gave 


78 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS, 


up the chase, much to the gratification of the worn out Americans. 

From this time the company took matters more coolly, regain¬ 
ing their expended energies, and also rejoicing in the return of var¬ 
ious individuals who were supposed dead. It was the 13th day of 
June, when the crestfallen rangers filed into the Mingo Bottom. 
Only about three hundred returned with the main body, but for a 
week stragglers were coming in, until it was discovered that their 
actual loss was not over seventy persons. 





COL, WILLIAM CRAWFORD. 


79 


CHAPTER II. 

i-APTUKED HY INDIANS-COMPANIONS MASSACRED-INTERVIEW 

Wiril GIRTY-AID REFUSED-TIRESOME MARCHES-INDIG¬ 
NITIES- DOOMED TO DEATH- BEATEN AND FIENDISHLY 

TORTURED-BURNED AT THE STAKE. 


After the brave Virginia rangers had been on the retreat for 
two days and nights, Col. Crawford discovered his horse weak¬ 
ening, and concluded it would be impossible for him to travel much 
further. Knowing that each man needed his own steed, he deter¬ 
mined to get away from the main body, as far as his horse could carry 
him, and then trust to his own legs for further safety. Accordingly, 
when nearing a marshy bog, he called his relatives, consisting of 
nephew, son, and son-in-law, together with Dr. Knight, the surgeon 
of the expedition, and asked them to accompany him in retreat. 
This they consented to do, supposing the entire body of horsemen 
would be scattered sooner or later, and having promised the Colonel 
to stand by him to the end. The four horsemen, therefore, under 
cover of night, set out, taking a direction at right angles to the one 
pursued by the company. All night did they cautiously wend their 
way through woods, over streams, and across marshes. When 
daylight came, Crawford’s horse had completely given out, so he 
was forced to proceed on foot, as did also the others. They traveled 
on all day. In the afternoon they met with Lieut. Ashley 
and Capt. Biggs, who had also abandoned the main body. 


8 o 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


Rather a pleasant night was spent together, each party having 
escapades mid adventures to relate, thrilling in the extreme. On 
the next day the six border men, thinking they were now out of 
reach of the hostile foes, continued the march homeward, when 
most unexpectedly they found themselves in the midst of an ambus¬ 
cade. It was useless to fire, and impossible to escape. Biggs and 
Ashley had proceeded but a short distance, when they were over¬ 
taken, tomahawked, and their scalps brought back as victorious 
trophies of war. Crawford and Knight were deceived by an 
apparent friendliness on the part of the savages, into delivering 
themselves up as prisoners of war. Just how far the other two 
members of the party succeeded in getting away before overtaken, 
is not known, but their mutilated bodies were found some days 
aftervaird. 

The prisoners, Crawford and the physician, were conducted to 
the village, and there watched with an unsleeping vigilance. Right 
well did they now know that their fate would be the most horrible 
one possible to devise. 

Crawford heard that the notorious Simon Girty was not far 
away, and begged to see him. Girty and he had been well 
acquainted before the renegade left his American home, their 
acquaintance even reaching that of an intimate friendship, it 
has been stated that Girty once had sought the hand of Col. 
Crawford’s beautiful daughter, which had been refused him by 
both father and child. The remembrance of this little episode 
in his career was not calculated to inspire him with love for the 
veteran, who was now, to a certain extent, in his power. But 
Crawford hoped that still a fiiint spark of humanity might be found 
in the treacherous heart, and that for old friendship’s sake, if nothing 
else, he would use his influence for deliverance. The savages 
granted Crawford’s request, and the meeting took place. 

It has been said that Girty was offered one thousand dollars, if 


ti 



INDIANS TORTURING A CAPTIVR. 























































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































82 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

he would secure the Colonel’s release. This he indignantly refused, 
taunting his victim with the prospect of death. Crawford returned 
to his Indian captors, feeling that every ray of hope had departed. 

The prisoners were driven on, the party in charge wisely 
avoiding the lodge of the Half King Pomoacon, as it was very 
certain that this kind-hearted Indian ruler would bitterly oppose such 
tortures as had been determined upon. 

It is said that on their journey to the place of execution, the 
party came upon five other prisoners. These were all placed 
together in charge of a great number of squaws and children, 
while the warriors went out to hunt. Some of the prisoners 
attempted to escape, but they were set upon by the women and 
children with tomahawks, knives, and clubs, with such fury and 
violence that every one save Knight and Crawford were murdered 
outright. The fiendish wretches, whose appetite for blood had 
been aroused, scalped the victims, severed their heads from their 
bodies, and perpetrated other diabolical barbarisms too disgusting 
to mention. With yells of triumph did the small boys dance 
around, swinging the fresh and bleeding scalps aloft, and fre¬ 
quently dashing them into the unprotected faces of the surviving 
prisoners. 

The next day at sunrise, the captors and captives again set out 
upon their wearisome journey. Reaching the town where dwelt 
The Pipe and Wingenund, the two noted Delaware chieftains, 
they halted. 

The Pipe manifested great friendliness, as indeed he had 
frequently met both Knight and Crawford in times of peace. 
This seemed to offer a gleam of hope, but when he began to apply 
the black paint of death, the doomed whites bowed their heads in 
submission to the inevitable. 

The party again started for their final destination. Along 
the route it became more and more apparent that a fearful death 


COL. WILLIAM CRAWFORD. 


S3 

awaited the victims. Insults and indignities were heaped upon 
them by all classes. Warriors, squaws, and children, would slap 
them in the face, pull their hair, prick them with arrows, etc., etc. 
Girty was seen following in the rear, apparently in the highest 
humor over the prospect of revenge. He finally approached 
Knight, and said: 

“ Are you the doctor ! ” 

“Yes sir,” said Knight. “I have met you before, haven’t I?” 
and he reached out his hand, hoping that Girty had come to 
deliver them. The inhuman renegade cried: 

“Begone! you-rascal! I’ll never shake hands with a 

cowardly Virginian.” 

It was the afternoon of Tuesday, June ii, 1782—only two 
days before the three hundred frontiersmen reached the Mingo 
Bottom—that the Indians with their victims reached the vicinity 
of Pipe’s Town, where the tortures of death were to be inflicted on 
all but Dr. Knight. The prisoners understood that their doom 
was sealed, and that the death would be fearful enough, but none 
imagined beings capable of such diabolical acts as were really 
practiced. 

Col. Crawford, or the “ Big Captain,” as his tormentors 
called him, was reserved for the last. Many of those who were 
witnesses of his death had met him in times of peace, and still 
retained a warm regard for the brave-hearted white. Especially 
did Wingenund, the Delaware chief. It is said by Dr. Knight in 
his thrilling narrative of this scene, that quite a conversation took 
place between Crawford and his old Indian friend, regarding the 
cause of the apparent hostility on the part of the infuriated savages. 
Wingenund informed the Colonel that the latter was supposed to 
have been connected with the massacre of the Moravian Indians a 
short time previous, and that the worst possible fate was l esei \ cd 
for every one having a hand in that. In vain did Crawford assure 



84 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


VVingeniind of his hearty disapproval of that barbarous outrage, stating 
that Col. Williamson and his select company were alone responsible 
for that, while the government and all law-abiding citizens con¬ 
demned it. Wingenund said it would be utterly impossible to 
convince the yelling mob about him. that such a statement was 
true ; they had heard of Crawford’s complicity, and nothing now 
could check them. A last sad farewell was taken of each other, 
while the tears trickled down the cheeks of the brave Delaware, 
as he saw his beloved friend tied to the stake. 

The details of this awful tragedy are almost too fearful for 
belief; and were it not for the excellent authority from whom we 
glean what is here appended, the account of it might be taken 
with a degree of incredulity. But Dr. Knight, who was obliged 
to be an eye-witness of the horrible drama, afterward escaping, 
gives us the full particulars in all their hideousness. 

Knight and Crawford were stripped naked, painted black 
from head to foot, and then beaten severely with clubs. This was 
but the premonition of coming cruelties. Crawford was then 
taken to a stake prepared for the occasion, bound round with 
thongs, sufficient “ slack ” being allowed to permit him to move 
about the stake, or sit upon the ground. Then began the hellish 
work of torture. One Indian loaded his gun with powder, and 
shot it into the victim. This was received with loud yells of 
applause by the others, who immediately followed his example. 
Seventy or eighty large charges were thus sent into the naked 
body, untd, had not the paint preceded, the powder alone would 
have turned the tender flesh to an ebony hue. Stoically did the 
grey-haired veteran stand this terrible infliction, scarcely flinching 
under the most excruciating pain. As yet the tragedy had but 
just begun. A number of yelling demons now rushed upon him, 
and severed his ears from his head. The blood streamed down 
until he presented a frightful appearance. Then followed cruelties 


COL. WILLIAM CRA WFORD. 


85 


and indignities beyond description. Dr. Knight closed his eyes to 
the awful sight several times, thereby not witnessing all that 
transpired, but by the noise, the clamor, and renewed yelling, could 
always tell when some successful device had been resorted to for 
increasing pain. The women and children vied with each other 
in attempting to wreak misery on the unresisting victim. For an 
hour or more this preliminary torture was indulged in, until, 
bruised, and bleeding, and raw, the sufferer was prepared for the 
fagots. Slow burning hickory poles were placed around him, that 
the fire might not cause death too soon. It seems that the 
hardened multitude of the old Coliseum, where Christian martyr 
or condemned criminal gave their life’s blood in conflict with 
ferocious beasts, never could have dreamed of such barbarities as 
these fiends now enacted. 

As the flames began to roll up around the stake, each forked 
tongue licking the quivering flesh, as if conscious, and in high glee 
ov'er the prospect of dissolving soul and body, the distinguished 
victim could remain silent no longer. He called to Girty, who sat 
on a horse near by, to shoot him and end his misery. Girty shook 
his head, and answerer! that he had no gun. Then Capt. Elliott, 
who, clad in British military array, stood near, was appealed to for 
some merciful termination of his horrible fate, but in vain. 
These renegades had become as callous as their yelling and 
whooping companions. Even during the most excruciating 
agonies of Crawford, Girty approached Knight, and endeavored to 
enter into conversation regarding old times. He inquired as to the 
opinion men in Virginia held toward him; whether his punishment 
would be very severe, were he captured by the Americans, and 
many other questions, which Knight had no heart to answer then. 

Col. Crawford, in the meantime, ceased appealing for more 
immediate death, and sought only to derive assistance from a 
merciful God. Low, solemn prayers were sent up to Him, whose 


86 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

eye never sleepeth, for succor in this awful closing of an earthly 
existence. Gradually did the flesh, the nerves, and muscles, 
become oblivious to pain. The mediums of communication to the 
brain at length lost their function 5 and the nearly exhausted victim 
sank upon a bed of coals. 

It seems that the bloodthirsty tormentors must surely now 
be satisfied—that their demoniac natures can desire no further 
suffering. But look! A stalwart brave thinks of the much- 
coveted scalp, and plunges into the burning mass to secure it. 
The keen blade carves the circle, and in a moment more the 
reeking, gory covering is lifted from the scorched and bleeding 
head. The victim, however, moves not a muscle—the power of 
sensation is well nigh, if not quite, extinct. But stop! A hideous 
old hag, with projecting teeth and wrinkled visage, hopes once 
more to fan the dying spark of life into existence. She rushes to 
the pile of coals, gathers a piece of bark, and loading it with live, 
glowing embers, pours them upon the unprotected head. It seems 
improbable that the skull has been opened sufficiently to let in the 
fire, but the intense heat penetrates to the sensitive seat of life, and 
stirs the wretched sufferer again to action. He rises, blind and 
staggering, involuntarily renews his weary walk around the stake, 
hoping to rid himself of the unspeakable torments that will, in a 
few moments more, end his suffejing. 

At length, quivering and writhing from head to feet. Col, 
William Crawford, soldier, patriot, Washington’s friend, gave up 
the ghost, and his body was burned to ashes. 



















































































































































LIFE OF SIMON GIRTY 


CHAPTER I. 

EARLY INFLUENCES-DEMORALIZING SURROUNDINGS—FAMILY- 

LIFE IN CAPTIVITY DURING BOYHOOD-EFFECTS OF SAVAGE 

TRAINING—RETURN HOME-GIRTY AND KENTON AS SPIES- 

FAITHFUL SERVICE-ESPOUSES THE CAUSE OF FREEDOM- 

DISSATISFACTION-BECOMES A TRAITOR-ALLIES HIMSELF 

WITH BRITISH AND SAVAGES. 

The name of Simon Girty was a synonym for terror one 
hundred years ago. Then there was a ring in the tones which 
carried it, that caused the housewife to involuntarily blanch with 
fear, and the American scout to seize his gun with a firmer grip. 
Children shuddered when they heard it spoken; officers of the army 
appeared anxious to catch the least information regarding it, while 
savage cruelty gloated over its prominence. 

“ Some men are born to lead.” Yes, and frequently they seem 
to care not under what circumstances, or championing what cause. 
If the defense of virtue, of freedom, of innocent humanity offers 
not an opportunity for the gratification of such an ambition, then 
repute must be gained by ignoring virtue, placing the shackles upon 

liberty, and crushing the helpless. 

89 



90 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


Simon Girty was by nature a leader; by acquirements an 
inhuman monster; by birth an Irish-American; by habit a savage. 
Naturally endowed with an impetuous, fiery disposition, his life in 
the wilderness, for the most part estranged from all that was good 
and noble, made him a very demon. 

Some have endeavored to palliate his wrong doings; others 
have said that liquor drinking developed his savage propensities, 
while freedom from that habit would have made an entirely differ¬ 
ent character. No doubt the addition of this fiery stimulant aug¬ 
mented that bloodthirsty nature, which he possessed; but within 
the bosom was ever lurking, whether intoxicated or sober, an 
insatiate love of cruelty and vengeance, which were ready at any 
moment to burst forth in unquenchable fury. 

He was born somewhere in the neighborhood of Fort Pitt, 
(Pittsburgh) in the State of Pennsylvania, about the year 1750. His 
father was a disreputable trader among the Indians, dealing out to 
them more liquor, perhaps, than any other article, in exchange for 
furs and skins. Inheriting that love for stimulants, which too 
frequently characterizes the natives of the Emerald Isle, old Simon 
Girty gratified his appetite to an unlimited degree, finally bringing 
premature death to himself, and great suffering upon his entire 
family. Thomas, his oldest son, was the most respectable of all the 
boys, having lived on the Allegheny, at Girty’s Run, the greater 
part of his life, in comparative quiet. Simon, James, and George, 
however, naturally followed in the wake of their father, only 
becoming much more notorious, because of superior courage and 
opportunities. The two latter possessed natures equally fiendish 
with that of Simon, though they did not become so notorious. 

When quite young, these three boys were carried into captivity 
by the Indians. Thomas, it seems, escaped from their savage 
clutches; just how, we are not informed. 

For several years vSimon lived in the wilderness with his red 






9 * 




I 


































































92 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


brothers, to whom he soon became attached. As he was but five 
or six years of age, when captured, the instructions given by the 
Indians, as well as the experiences connected with their rude life, 
made an indelible impression upon his tender mind. Although 
rescued by Col. Bouquet, the lad could not be kept with the 
whites, except by force. 

After being cpmpelled to remain among his own kindred for a 
year or more, Simon became contented with his lot, and grew to 
manhood under the influences of border civilization. 

At the age of twenty-four we find him acting as spy with 
Kenton, in Dunmore’s war. During this exciting period his cour¬ 
age and skill in woodcraft made him a valuable addition to the list 
of scouts. A peculiarity, also, of his otherwise unenviable make¬ 
up was a strict regard for his word—no man ever knew of Girty 
breaking his promise. Hence, while fighting against the Indians, 
he was as true a friend to the cause he espoused, as when, after¬ 
ward, he cast his lot with the treacherous savages and fought so 
relentlessly against the whites, 

Simon Kenton ever spoke of this comrade spy as fearless, 
skillful, and heroic. Nor did he ever fail to think or speak of the 
renegade, except in the most affectionate manner. That magnetism 
which gave him the power to command thousands of Indians, 
attracted Kenton with an irresistible power. It seems also, as has 
been referred to elsewhere in this work, that the attachinent 
between these sturdy pioneer Indiaii.-hunters was mutual. For 
when Kenton was about to be sacrificed at the stake, Girty suc¬ 
ceeded in securing his liberty at the risk of his own safety and 
reputation. 

After Dunmore^s war Simon Girty joined the American 
cause in the struggle for freedom. His countrymen immediately 
made him commander of a company of militia, and in this capacity 
he did active service until the year 1778, 


SIMON GIRTY. 


93 


At this time he was stationed at Pittsburgh. His ambition 
called for promotion. This it seemed impossible to receive, as 
others were constantly preferred before him. Becoming at length 
exceedingly jealous, and claiming ill-treatment at the hands of his 
superiors, he determined to play traitor, flee to the British ranks, 
and gain that prominence so much desired. 

Accordingly, in company with Elliott, Alexander, McKee, 
and twelve others, he first circulated false and malicious stories 
among the savages, inciting them to take up arms against the 
Americans, and then deserted Fort Pitt and his countrymen. 

The injury done by the renegade body, just at this critical 
moment—March, 1778—was incalculable. Neutral tribes were 
told that Washington was dead; that Congress was broken up; that 
defeat after defeat had followed the efforts of the American army, 
and that in a short time the English would sweep down upon all 
opposing Indians with destructive violence. 

Had it not been for Heckewelder, the Moravian missionary, 
much more damage to the American cause would have resulted 
from Girty’s falsehoods. This noble Christian man and patriot 
refuted the stories, and quieted the fears of several tribes, particularly 
the Delawares. 

Girty and his infamous colleagues, having abandoned Fort 
Pitt, struck across the country toward the British headquarters at 
Detroit. 

They came very near paying the penalty of their treachery, 
however, ere the goal of their ambition was reached. For hardly 
had they gotten fairly into the forests of Ohio, before an ambuscade 
of Indians compelled them to surrender. This they gladly did in 
preference to being shot down on the road. Girty remonstrated 
with the savages, maintaining that his intention was to join their 
allies, the English, and to fight battles for the red man. But 
in vain did he plead for liberty on these grounds. The captives 


94 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


were taken from place to place until brought before the grand 
council of the tribe, where the guilty and terrified deserters 
succeeded in convincing the chiefs of their loyalty to the British 
cause. 

Being finall}’^ released, Girty proceeded on his way to Detroit, 
which point he reached in due time, much to the joy of that 
notorious official. Gov. Hamilton. Disclosures of the Americans’ 
plans were made at once, and “ The Hair Buyer,” as Hamil¬ 
ton was termed, lost no time in taking advantage of the 
valuable information. The traitor was immediately jout in charge 
of a large force to act in concert with the Indians. This just suited 
the renegade, as it afforded abundant opportunity for gratifying 
what had now developed into an intense hatred for his own 
countrymen. 

It would be difficult to determine how many horrible massacres, 
scalping crusades, and savage battles, this white man of the woods 
engaged in during the remainder of the war. But certain it is 
that no champion of savage cruelty ever held such indomitable 
sway over his barbarous associates, nor ever wreaked such terrible 
vengeance as he. {Space would not permit even a cursory glance 
at his numerous conflicts. The whites along the border feared 
, him as they feared no chief that wielded the tomahawk. He 
united the craftiness and courage of the savage, with that superior 
mental force and knowledge gained in civilization. 




SIMON GIRTT. 


95 


CHAPiEK £1. 

ATTACK ON BRYANT’s STATION-POWER AS A LEADER_GETS 

COMMAND OF A LARGE FORCE-SEEKS VENGEANCE_MAR¬ 
RIES-SINKS INTO DISSIPATION-INSTANCES OF EXTREME 

CRUELTY-BECOMES BLIND SEVERAL YEARS BEFORE DEATH. 

One of his best arranged attacks was that upon Bryant 
Station, Kentucky. Girty, with six hundred painted fiends of the 
forest, silently surrounded the station where were collected the 
old men, women, and cnildren of me neroic settlers. With silent 
and noiseless steps the renegade and his subjects iDerformed their 
journey of many miles after nighnaii. so that, when the morning 
light began to scatter the darkness, the six hundred dusky forms 
were within a stone’s throw of the block house, and not a hint of 
their approach had the garrison received. 

Fortunately a detachment of American soldiers had arrived 
at the fort but a short time oefore the savages. Consequently, 
when the attacK was made in the morning, the too confident 
leader met with a sudden repulse, and was eventually completely 
routed. The failure ot the scheme, though, was not occasioned 

through any lack of military skill on the part of Girty_his 

arrangements and onslaughts were conducted with much ability. 

There is a bit of romance connected with this desperado’s 
career whicn Doth interests us and gives an insight into his better 
nature. Although hardened, cruel, and relentless when in his 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


worst moods, and, in fact, for the most part, during all his inter¬ 
course with men, yet there lay hidden somewhere beneath the 
rough exterior, a tender spot which Cupid only could discover. 

’Tis not music alone that “ hath power to soothe the savage 
breast.” A beautiful face, a soul lit eye, a bewitching smile, a 
fair maiden with the form and features of a Venus, can frequently 
exercise as softening an influence 

At least, it was such a delicate, fascinating creature that caused 
Simon Girty to humble his proud heart. Death had stared him in 
the face many times, yet he rushed to its embrace. Sword and 
musket and tomahawk and scalping knife had threatened destruc¬ 
tion, did he not surrender, yet he scorned to bow before them. 
But when the beautiful captive maiden, Catharine Malott, came 
under his observation, the old lion crouched, and would not 
come forth. 

This young lady was about eighteen years oi age when first 
beheld by Simon Girty. She had been captured by the Indians 
three years previous, near Wheeling, Virginia. Her graceful 
figure had developed in the warm sunlight and fresh air of a 
nomadic life, while to the fair cheex was added the rich color of a 
vigorous circulation, and to the eye a softened fire that glowed ana 
burned into the souis of men. Even her captors had learned to 
love the young girl. The old warriors were never better pleased 
than when she would bring them a gourd of water, or attend upon 
them in times of sickness. She made the very best of her 
unfortunate captivity, learning readily their barbarous customs, and 
trying to keep herself cheerful by scattering sunshine among her 
rude associates. 

Girty, learning that the damsel's mother was in Detroit, 
endeavoring in every possible way to near something or her 
daughter, determined to effect her release. Accordingly, acting in 
the role of a hero, he communicated this intelligence to Miss 


SIMON GIRTT, 


97 


Malott. Tears of gratitude and unbounded joy at once filled the 
maiden’s eyes, while the tender heart clung to the strong deliverer 
in fullest confidence. Nor did the latter prove false in his prom¬ 
ises. Although having the young lady completely in his power, 
away from home, friends, and civilization, he nevertheless sought 
to win her affection and hand in the most honorable manner. 

She was conducted to the city of Detroit by himself. There, 
the house in which lived for the time Mrs. Malott, was hunted up, 
and amid tears of joy, mingled with expressions of tenderest regard 
for the one who had united the long separated parent and child, 
Simon Girty asked no other reward than the fair maiden herself. 

The young lady fully reciprocated the affection of Girty. 
Mrs. Malott, however, desired to give a different kind of compen¬ 
sation for the services rendered by the renegade. She wanted her 
daughter to remain at home. Besides, the more experienced 
woman discerned characteristics about the suitor, which, she feared 
(and rightly) would one day bring untold sorrow upon his wife. 
This she communicated to Catharine, but the die was cast—the 
maiden’s heart was no longer her own, so the nuptials were 
celebrated immediately, after the custom of the day. 

For several years Catharine Girty had little reason to regret 
her union with the “ white savage.” His love for drink would 
occasionally cause a jar in the marital relations, but the flame of 
love burned away the dross, and purified their affection anew. 
However, after a number of years, Girty grew cross and petulant, 
especially when under the influence of stimulants, which grew more 
and more into a settled condition. His savage nature was given 
full sway; the old demoniacal spirit took complete possession of 
him, until a separation from wife and children became a necessity. 
Mrs. Girty accordingly moved back to Detroit, from whence 
they had gone into the interior of Ohio, while her husband 
continued his barbarous and heartless career among the Indians. 


7 


98 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


It is said by one or two writers on this subject, that he and 
his wife afterward came together, living peaceably until her death. 

D. M. Wortman, Esq., of Ohio, gives the following interest¬ 
ing note regarding Girty about the close of his life. Says he: 

“In 1813 I went to Malden, Canada (about fifteen miles 
below Detroit), and put up at a hotel kept by a Frenchman. I 
noticed in the bar-room a grey headed and blind old man. The 
landlady, who was his daughter, a woman of about thirty years of 
age, inquired of me, ‘ Do you know who that is ? ’ pointing to the 
old man. On my replying ‘No,’ she said, ‘ It is Simon Girty.’ 
He had then been blind about four years. In 1815 I returned to 
Malden, and ascertained that Girty had died some time previous. 
Girty was a man of extraordinary strength, power of endurance, 
courage and sagacity. He was in height about five feet, ten inches, 
and strongly made.” 

To show the firmness of this man’s nature when opposed, we 
give the following, related by Heckewelder, the Moravian mission¬ 
ary. This missionary, with several hundred innocent Moravians, 
whose towns upon the Muskingum River had been ruthlessly 
destroyed and themselves taken captive by Girty, were ordered to 
Sandusky for execution. The renegade himself could not accom¬ 
pany the party, having too many scalping expeditions on foot. He 
gave the strictest orders, however, to those who had charge of the 
captives. 

« Drive them the same as though they were cattle!” thundered 
he to the Frenchman in command. “ Never let them halt, even for 
the purpose of the women giving suckle to their children.” 

The Frenchman, however, was more humane than his master. 
He declined to persecute the unoffending whites after Girty’s 
departure. Having arrived at Lower Sandusky, instead of pushing 
on afoot as commanded, he ordered a halt, until some boats should 
be brought from Detroit. While thus waiting for the conveyances 


SIMON GIRTT. 


99 


to arrive, the pilgrims were startled by the announcement that 
Girty had returned, and was completely beside himself with rage. 
Directly he came to the guardhouse where were the French com¬ 
mander and his captiveso “He flew at the Frenchman,” says 
Heckewelder, “ most furiously, striking at him, and threatening to 
split open his head. He swore the most horrid oaths respecting 
us, and continued in that way till midnight. His oaths were all to 
the purport that he would never leave the house until he had split 
our heads with his tomahawk, and made our brains stick to the 
walls of the room. He had somewhere procured liquor, and would 
at every drink renew his oaths until he fell asleep. Never before 
did any of us hear such oaths, nor know anybody to rave like 
him. He appeared like a host of evil spirits. He would some¬ 
times come up to the bolted door between us and him, threatening 
to chop it to pieces to get at us. No Indian we had ever seen 
drunk, would have been a match for him.” 

With such an inhuman monster we care to have little to do. 
Let this cursory glance at his life suffice; let his name go down 
to posterity, as it has come to us—disgraced by the life of him who 
bore it, and a warning to all, that an evil heart, bad associates, 
love of whisky, and an utter disregard of Him who is the author 
of purity and true nobility of character, will bring a stigma no 
less than that which attaches itself to the name of Simon Girty, 
the Renegade. 





I 























































CANADIAN TRAPPER. 


102 











































LIl-E OF MOLLY FINNEY, 

THE CANADIAN CAPTIVE, 


CHAPTER I. 

HER REMARKABLP: beauty -FIRESIDE CONVERSATION- AT¬ 
TEMPT TO REMOVE FEARS-STARTLED-INDIANS EFFECT AN 

ENTRANCE-KILL MR. MEANS AND CHILD-CAPTURE MISS 

FINNEY-INDIANS FLEE-BURIAL-REMAINDER SEEK BLOCK¬ 

HOUSE. 

The circumstances which we are about to relate are taken 
from real life. They may appear of so romantic a character that 
the probability of their ever having transpired is questioned. But 
great pains have been taken to secure the facts as here narrated, 
which are given by descendants of the parties concerned, and noth¬ 
ing in the history of the unfortunate lady is here presented upon 
which the reader cannot rely. Molly Finney was the prettiest girl 
on the coast of Maine. Her sister, with whom she lived, perhaps 
had surpassed Molly in beauty before the responsibilities of wife 
and mother were laid upon her shoulders. But now there was not 
a maiden or matron in any place near Casco Bay, who would for 
a moment challenge the right of our heroine to occupy the fore¬ 
most seat in the synagogue of beauties. 

lO.^ 



104 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

Many a young man had been smitten by the charms of this 
fascinating creature as she was seen at the trading post, or met with 
in the gatherings about Flying Point, Nor was Molly altogether 
oblivious to the fact that she was the admired of all admirers. 

‘ ‘ She was pretty, and knew it too, 

As other village beauties do,” 

but not to her detriment. Beauty loses its enchanting power when 
its possessor is ever seeking to display it. The pea fowl w’ould 
appear transcendantly lovely, were its natural loveliness always 
accompanied with the desire to conceal its beautiful plumage. And 
cannot the same be said of humanity? The puerile fop, although 
perhaps in many cases possessed of natural attractiveness, becomes 
supremely disgusting with eye glasses, cane, and his pseudo culture. 
The bewitching maiden is no longer such when compliments have 
taken from her cheek the blush of modesty, or flattery produced an 
apparent desire to excel. 

No such opinion of herself had ever resulted in anything 
harmful with Miss Molly, unless playing with men’s heart-strings 
is harmful. She showed no desire to win any one’s affection 
without reciprocating it, but it was a real pleasure to see how 
recklessly the “ sterner sex ” fell headlong into a trap not prepared 
for them at all. A bewitching smile, a roguish glance of the eye, 
would cause such a descent from the pedestal of dignity that—who 
could resist the temptation of witnessing it ? But to our story. 

It was the evening of a balmy day in June, 1756, that Mr. 
Means, his wife and three children, together with Miss Molly 
Finney and a man by the name of Martin, who was working for 
Mr. Means, gathered around the fireside and began to discuss the 
probability of an attack from the Indians. The settlers of that 
region had been collecting at the block house for several days. 


MOLL r FIN NR T. 


105 

Reports were constantly coming in of the presence of savages in 
the neighborhood, and the depredations committed. Still, Mr. 
Means, living not far from the place of refuge, thought it time 
enough to remove his family when an Indian had been seen in the 
immediate vicinity of his house. He had cleared a patch of timber, 
built a comfortable log cabin, planted vegetables, and sowed some 
grain; it seemed hard to abandon these now, at the time they most 
needed his attention. 

Upon this evening, however, he felt somewhat uneasy. 
Messengers had passed his cabin during the day, with the word 
that the fiendish redskins were approaching nearer and nearer. 
He had determined upon remaining as long as possible with safety, 
but he feared the removal should have taken place before. 

“ Wife,” said Mr. Means, “ have everything ready to load up 
to-morrow morning. We must be off before sunrise. I wish we 
had gone to-day.” 

“ Why, husband,” replied Mrs. Means, with some degree of 
apprehension, “ surely you have not heard of the Indians being 
about our house.” 

“ No, not in this immediate vicinity, but they were seen by 
Sam Thompson yesterday, skulking around his place, and you 
know they could very easily make that distance by this time. But 
do not be alarmed, I think they will hardly attempt treachery just 
yet. Besides, Martin and I have been in the woods all day, and 
have seen neither an Indian nor Indian signs.” 

But as Mr. Martin spoke, there seemed a ring of sadness in 
his tone, and a cloud settled upon his features, not usual with him. 

“ Never fear those cowardly redskins, Thomas,” said Molly, 
“with such a force as yo'u have about you to-night. Why, I 
believe I could be more than a match for a half-dozen of them 
myself; and you could certainly do that well, while here is Mr. 
Martin, Alice, and the children. Everybody, male and female, 


io6 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


old and young, ought to be ready to fight these painted wretches. 
But then your fears are groundless. I don’t think they would be 
brave enough to come this near the block house, until they come in 
all their force,” and the sprightly maiden endeavored to scatter the 
clouds which seemed to overshadow the rest of the household. 
She laughed at their apprehensions, and jumped up and pretended 
to be a redskin herself, brandishing an old butcher knife over her 
bead, and endeavoring to give the war-whoop. 

Her effort in this direction was not a complete success. 
While most of them could not refrain from laughing at her antic 
movements, yet there was not the usual flow of spirits manifested, 
to betoken unalloyed happiness. 

Again and again did Mr. Means express the desire that he 
had moved the family to the block house before night. Fearing 
lest the women nnd children might be unduly alarmed, he 
would generally close his remarks with a reproof to himself for 
cowardice. Yet, as he said, it was not for his own safety, but 
that of the helpless ones, which caused the anxiety of mind. And 
the more he tried to cast off the evil forebodings that crowded 
upon him, the less able to accomplish it did he become. It seemed 
that an impenetrable gloom had settled upon him, which exceeded 
the darkness surrounding the house, and caused him to feel 
confident of impending danger. 

No doubt the presentiment which took possession of Mr. 
Means’ mind, was really the warning of Him whose eye never 
sleepeth—a warning of approaching death, that a preparation for 
that change might be made before it be too late. 

Finally Molly said, “ O Thomas, I declare you ivill get us 
all frightened to death yet, if you don’t show less uneasiness. 
What in the world has taken possession of you? You are 
generally the last one to fear danger; you must have worked hard 
to-da}'. Your nerves are unstrung. Hadn’t you better go to bed ?” 


MOLLT FIN NET. 


107 

Just as Molly finished her little speech, a rustling of bushes 
was distinctly heard. In a moment every member of that little cir¬ 
cle was upon his feet. Strange how such slight noises as that can 
startle the most courageous ones, when danger is momentarily ex¬ 
pected. Even Martin involuntarily reached for his long hunting 
knife, as though about to meet a foe. 

Molly ran to the window and iieered into the darkness. 
Nothing could be discerned for quite a while. Presently she saw 
a dark figure retreating through the woods. It appeared somewhat 
like a human form, and caused a momentary chill to run through 
her veins, but in another instant a wolf rushed by, and then another 
and another, until the foolish girl concluded what she had seen must 
be wolves. Had she notified Mr. Means of the first object she had 
seen, better preparation would have been made ere they retired for 
the night. As it was, the young lady turned to the anxious listeners 
about her, and exclaimed: 

“Only a wolf! Hal ha! to think that one of those plentiful 
creatures should raise the entire Means’ household to such a pitch 
of excitement! Come! Let us all go to beil, sleep soundly, dream 
pleasant dreams, and then be ready for the old cramped block house 
by sunrise,” and Molly started to her room. 

The remainder of the family soon repaired to their couches, 
except Thomas Means. He visited each door and secured it as best 
he could. Then the windows were nailed down, and the old fire¬ 
place stopped up. After seeing that no place was left open through 
which an enemy might enter, he again sat down and listened in¬ 
tently for strange noises. Nothing being heard which caused a 
suspicion, he undressed and retired for the night—for the last time 
in his life. 

It was not long before jDerfect quiet reigned about the Means’ 
cabin. The tired family were soon asleep, dreaming of early child¬ 
hood days, future wealth, and Indian massacres. About midnight 



io8 


SCENE ON CASCO BAY 








































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































MOLLT FIN NET. 


a half dozen dusky forms might have been seen stealthily advancing 
toward the little cabin, tomahawk in hand. They were the mes¬ 
sengers of Death to the pioneer’s familyo Many a scalp dangled 
from their belts, and at least one more was soon to be added to the 
iiiimbero 

With tomahawk and knife they noiselessly worked the bolt 
from one of the doors, and in another moment all of them stood in 
the presence of their victims. One of the little girls, Alice Means, 
was the first to obseiwe the unwelcome guests. With a scream suf¬ 
ficient to awaken the other sleepers, she leaped from her bed and 
fled through the open door out into the dense underbrusho A 
couple of the savages started in pursuit, but failing to observe the 
direction she took, returned to participate in the destruction of the 
rest, 

Mr, Means was the first to be seized. Scarcely conscious of 
his situation, he was dragged into the open air, and before an effort 
could be made to escape from his captors, a rifle ball pierced his 
brain, and Thomas Means was no more. 

Miss Molly rushed from her room, clad only in her night 
clothes, and very nearly made good her escape, A burly savage, 
however, spying the fleeting form, dashed madly after her, and in 
another moment brought the fair captive back to the scene of 
slaughter, 

Mrs. Means grasped her infant boy, when her husband was 
ruthlessly torn from the bed, and with remarkable presence of mind, 
secured herself in the adjoining room. She hurriedly bolted the 
door, but not soon enough to avoid witnessing the horrible death of 
her husband, and the still more blood curdling sight of her infant’s 
death, A ball from an Indian’s rifle came crashing through the 
crack of the door just as it was almost closed, finding a lodgment 
in the breast of Mrs. Means after passing entirely through the body 
of her child! The brave woman immediately laid the little one 


no 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


upon the bed and proceeded to barricade the door. She then began 
crying out to different persons who really had no existence, for the 
purpose of creating the impression that there were several men in 
the house. She cried: 

“ Martin, shoot down the wretches from the back window. 
Thompson, fire from your window. Kerns and Brown, hurry down 
and lock the door so they can’t get out,” etc., etc. Martin really 
did fire and wounded an Indian, which so frightened the remainder 
that they beat a hasty retreat. 

The remaining hours of that fearful night dragged wearily 
enough with Mrs. Means and Martin, who alone out of the house¬ 
hold were left in the cabin. Finally the gladsome light of day be¬ 
gan to scatter the prevailing darkness, and with it came the unbear¬ 
able consequences of their imprudence. 

Mr. Martin and the almost distracted wife and mother picked 
up the lifeless body of Thomas Means, scalped and bleeding, and 
carried it within the cabin. Then broke forth the deep anguish of 
soul which this courageous woman could no longer control. 

“O God!” she exclaimed. “All gone! all gone! Is there 
not a loved one left } O, my dear, dear husband, my darling chil¬ 
dren, do not leave me alone! Father! Thou who pitiest Thy 
poor suffering creatures! Wilt Thou not send back my loved 
ones?” and the distracted woman buried her head in her hands in 
unspeakable grief. 

But He to whom she had appealed, who careth for the ravens 
and the lilies of the field; who heareth the voice of the distressed, 
and answereth the prayer of his children; He it was, surely, who 
prevented the dethronement of intellect at this awful moment by re¬ 
turning two of the loved ones to her embrace. One of the little 
girls, as has been described, fled to the brush and made good her 
escape. The other crawled into a hole in the floor, unobserved, 
and both children rushed from their concealment the same time. 


MOLLT FIN NET. 


111 


The frantic mother returned a heartfelt prayer of thankfulness 
to God as she drew the little ones to her bosom. They in turn 
were rejoiced beyond measure at finding her whom they loved still 
living, but were almost paralyzed at the sight of the dead ones upon 
the bed. 

After arranging her husband and child for the grave, which 
had been prepared by Martin, the sorrow-stricken group laid the 
two side by side, and the heavy clods were thrown in upon them. 
The last funeral rites accomplished, Mrs. Means and her children, 
with Martin, took up their weary march to the block house. 

It is not the design of this sketch to follow the changing for¬ 
tunes of those who escaped upon this memorable night. Suffice it 
to say that they arrived safely at their place of refuge, where all 
remained until the Indians had been driven from the vicinity. 









12 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS, 


CHAPTER II. 

RETREAT OF INDIANS-NURSE-ARRIVAI. AT QUEBEC-SALE OF 

MOLLY-LEMOINE, PURCHASER-HER WORK IN CAPTIVITY- 

CAPT. m’lELLAN arrives AT QUEBEC-INQUIRES FOR CAP¬ 
TIVE-landlord’s INSTRUCTIONS. 

As soon as the Indians had been frightened from the Means 
cabin they began a rapid retreat in a northwesterly direction. Miss 
Finney was graciously provided with a blanket to shield her some¬ 
what from the night air, but her feet were left entirely unprotected. 
The torture experienced from being forced along over brush and 
briers in this condition, can scarcely be realized. Finally, at a dis¬ 
tance of several miles from the starting point, with her feet and 
ankles torn and bleeding, she was permitted to rest. Here her piti¬ 
able condition was first noticed. Some of the party happening to 
have an extra pair of moccasins and leggins, the poor girl was sup¬ 
plied with them, much to her comfort. The journey was again 
taken up, and for twelve hours did they hasten over hills, across 
creeks, and through tangled underbrush. As the evening twilight 
was gathering around, the leader ordered a halt. Some corn and 
dried venison were brought out, which was much relished by the 
almost famished girl. ^ 

The Indian whom Martin had wounded was being carried 
with them on a litter. Miss Molly was now informed that she 
must attend to all his wants, and did she permit him to die, her own 


MOLLT FINNEY. 


scalp would be taken in payment. Of course, while the office was 
by no means a pleasant one, she nevertheless became exceedingly 
anxious that the ugly patient might recover. He proved exceed¬ 
ingly ungrateful and cross, however. Indeed, his wound made him 
ferocious at times; so much so that Molly’s life was in jeopardy. 
Once he seized her by the hair, and raising aloft his tomahawk was 
about to let it descend, when another Indian caught his arm, thereby 
saving the life of the unfortunate maiden. 

As day after day rolled by, and she became more used to the 
Indian character. Miss Finney became more independent. She 
would occasionally taunt her captors, calling them cowards for 
keeping a “ squaw ” in captivity. Her patient also suffered from 
lack of attention. Molly would laugh at his grimaces, and refuse to 
obey his imperative commands. Such boldness really amused some 
of the warriors. The Indian never fails to admire courage, wher¬ 
ever seen. This, our beautiful captive maiden possessed in a high 
degree. 

One day, after the party had been on the road for several weeks, 
it was announced that Quebec was in sight. How joyfully Molly 
looked upon those habitations—the marks of civilization, where 
dwelt some of her own race—none but those who have experienced 
what she did, can imagine. It is true that she would now either be 
executed or sold into slavery, but it seemed that either would be 
preferable to a life among barbarians. 

The chief of the party came up to her as they were nearing 
the town, and said: 

“We no kill pale face squaw. We sell her. Good?” 

“Yes,” replied Molly. “ Yes. Sell me. To whom?” 

“Don’t know; some Frenchman. Anybody.” 

Accordingly, upon reaching the center of the town, a halt was 
made, and the girl offered for sale. It was a terrible state of society, 
that would encourage such outrageous practices as capturing female 
9 


II4 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

servants, and bringing in the scalps of white men. Yet the French 
of Canada were doing it at this time. 

It was not long before a shriveled old specimen of humanit}) 
came shuffling ujd, offered a nominal price for the girl, which waL 
accepted, and he, taking her by the hand, departed for home. The 
name of this purchaser was Lemoine—a wealthy old fellow, who. 
had in his possession several women who had been sold to him by 
savage captors. Most of these were compelled to work in the 
field at manual labor. This our spirited damsel resolutely deter¬ 
mined not to do. She was put to weeding an onion bed. The 
onions were soon all gone! She was ordered to prune the grape 
vines. Alas I such merciless cutting was never before witnessed. 
One thing after another did the old Frenchman put Molly to work 
at—one thing after another was ruined which she touched. In a 
rage Monsieur Lemoine ordered her to keep in the house; he didn’t 
want any more of her out doors. This was just what she wanted. 
Being a good cook, Madame Lemoine soon gave cveiything of the 
culinary sort into her hands, and there was general satisfaction all 
around. 

Although not reared to drudgery, and especially to fill the 
menial office of a slave, Molly Finney nevertheless possessed a 
hopeful disposition, and such an abundance of good common sense 
as to enable her to make the most of every situation of life, and 
pluck the flowers, though surrounded by many thorns. She conse¬ 
quently cast sunshine into the family where she lived, the reflection 
of which gladdened her own soul. Thoughts of home and kindred 
would course through her brain at times, causing the tears to invol¬ 
untarily start from her eyes, but such reflections were not encour¬ 
aged. And well for her beauty they were not. Her buoyant 
spirits assisted in developing her graceful form, and casting a glow 
of health over her radiant features, which finally worked out her 
salvation from slavery. 


MOLLT FINNEY. 


J15 

The breezes which blew along the Atlantic and down the St. 
Lawrence in September, 1757, wafted an English trader, called the 
Rose, to the wharf at Quebec. She was a well-equipped cruiser, 
fitted for other work and other seas. Her gentlemanly commander, 
Capt. McLellan, had expressed a desire to visit the famous French 
city of Canada for the av'owed purpose of gathering up some In¬ 
dian wares and such other articles of merchandise as that country 
afforded. His real j^urpose was to rescue the captive maiden, Molly 
Finney, accounts of whom he had heard at Freeport. Her sister 
and family were making inquiries constantly, regarding the fate of 
the poor girl. An Indian finally arrived at Freeport bearing the 
news of her captivity In Quebec. Of course it would necessitate 
great expense to accomplish her rescue, which Mrs. Means was by 
no means able to meet. Almost crazed to see her sister and recover 
her from slavery, she appealed to every ship captain whom she met 
for assistance. One evening, after listening to the pathetic story. 
Captain McLellan, a young man of fine address and noble heart, 
said: 

“ Mrs. Means, I do not know whether the owners ot the Rose 
will permit a trip up the St. Lawrence or not, but they have been 
talking of trying it for some time, and If I can persuade them to let 
me run up there, your sister shall be brought back to you, if she is 
in the town.” 

With many tears and grateful acknowledgements of his kind¬ 
ness, the joyful sister shook the generous commander by the hand^ 
and bade him God speed. 

It was about the 15th of Sej^tember when Capt. McLellan 
dropped an'chor at Quebec. Not many hours afterward he might 
have been seen at the hotel, Inquiring of the landlord respecting a 
certain English girl by the name of Finney. 

“Feeney, Feeney,” repeated the old fellow. “ O, yez, she iz a 
servant of Monsieur Lemoine. Yez, yez. A very beautiful girl is 





SCENE ON THE ST. LAWRENCE 


















































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































MOLLT FIN NET, 


117 

Mademoiselle Feeney. Ze young men would like to go wiz her, 
but Monsieur Lemoine keeps her locked up.” 

“ Has she any particular lover?” inquired our impertinent sea 
captain, in a careless sort of a manner, yet with a peculiar interest 
difficult to explain. 

“Veil, dere is von Monsieur Bovais who likes Mademoiselle 
very much, but she don’t like him so much, I guess,” and the old 
Frenchman looked up with a twinkle in his eye, that seemed to say, 
“ There’s a chance for you if you want her.” 

Somehow or other the last statement Jiad a very pleasant effect 
upon the handsome young seaman. He smiled audibly, and then 
continued: 

“Can you tell me where Monsieur Lemoine’s house is?” 

Before the landlord had time to answer, three foppish young 
Frenchmen stepped into the room, and called for wine. The pro¬ 
prietor gave McLellan a knowing wink, unobserved, which was at 
once understood. The latter accordingly ordered a lunch at a 
table near by, and sat down, apparently not noticing the new 
comers. 

“ Well, Bovais,” said one of the three in very good English, 
“you are completely trapped this time. Ha! ha! Before I would 
let old Lemoine beat me out of such a beautiful jewel as Mademoi¬ 
selle Finney, I would tear his old shanty down over his head,” and 
the speaker brought his fist down on the counter in real earnest. 

“ O, fie! Monsieur,” returned the party addressed, “you don’t 
know Lemoine. He would shoot a man and probably the girl too, 
rather than let her slip from his grasp.” 

“ But how close does he watch her, anyhow ?” said the third 
party in the group. “ Can’t you arrange to meet clandestinely?” 

“ Watch her! Why, Ferrere, she is not allowed to step upon 
the street without some member of the family is with her, and 
every night as soon as the day’s work is over she goes to her room, 


Il8 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

and the old tyrant turns the key upon her. Besides that,” rather 
reluctantly acknowledged the young man, “ I am. not so sure Mad^ 
emoiselle Finney would do such a thing. I tell you, Monsieurs, 
she is not like your French coquettes. She is so modest, so timid, 
so pure, so beautiful -” 

“ There, there,” interrupted one of the number. “ Bovais, 
you’re in love—positively in love—and that’s a condition of heart 
Frenchmen ought to know very little about. Come, let’s have some 
more wine, and talk about this matter at another time. Here’s to 
the health of Mademoiselle Finney.” 

After swallowing the champagne set before them, the trio took 
their departure from the hotel, while McLellan arose from his 
lunch, which had scarcely been touched, and received the directions 
to Monsieur Lemoine’s residence. 





MOLLT FfNNET. 


II9 


CHAPTER IIL 

MISS FINNEY UNDER GUARD-m’lELLAn’s VISIT-NOTE-RE¬ 
PLY-APPOINTED MIDNIGHT MEETING-PREPARATIONS FOR 

FLIGHT, WITH NOVEL EXPERIENCES-THANKSGIVING FOR 

RESTORATION-CAPT. m’lELLAN AT FLYING POINT-THE 

WEDDING. 

Molly Finney’s heart was sad. While her master and the 
family manifested confidence in her, it was not so difficult to live the 
life she was enduring, but now, since Monsieur Bovais had been 
coming to see her once in a while, old Lemoine’s suspicions were 
aroused—the girl might be taken from him I Accordingly she was 
ordered never to speak to him again, much less receive his company. 
More than that—her actions were closely watched. As has been 
said, the door of her room was locked from the outside every night, 
not permitting her even slight liberty after work hours. 

Molly cared nothing whatever for Monsieur Bovais. His at¬ 
tentions had been somewhat encouraged, simply because any one’s 
attentions were a relief from the harassing monotony of domestic 
slavery. Besides, she hoped that through his influence her liberty 
might be obtained. So when old Lemoine proclaimed his edict re¬ 
garding this gentleman friend, positively prohibiting social inter¬ 
course with any one out of the family, the poor girl’s heart sank 
within hen 

Upon the morning that Capt. McLellan overheard the conver- 


120 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


sation regarding- the captive maiden, Molly was going about her 
housework deeply despondent. The last ray of hope had fled, un¬ 
less—she scarcely dared to think it—unless her relatives might hear 
of her whereabouts, and send a rescuer. As she was pondering over 
the probabilities of such a case, there came a slight knock at the 
half open door, and a strange gentleman, wearing the colors of an 
English sea captain, stepped into the kitchen, without waiting a 
response to his knock. Rather frightened and bewildered, Molly 
jumped back and was about to oflTer a cry of alarm, when the courte¬ 
ous stranger, lifting his hat, said; 

“ Hist! Do not be scared. I did not want Monsieur Lemoine 
to know of my presence. Is this Miss Finney.^” 

“ Yes sir, that is my name,” exclaimed the girl, now assured. 
“ Whom do I have the honor of addressing?” 

“ My name is McLellan. I am commander of the ship just 
ai rived last night. I have a message for you here, which you must 
read at your leisure, and return me an answer at the time stated.’’ 

With those words the Captain tipped his hat and withdrew, 
leaving the young lady completel}- nonplussed. One of her own 
countrymen had called upon her, he knew her name, he understood 
her position, he sought to keep the interview from Monsieur 
Lemoine—what could it mean? With trembling hands she tore 
open the note, and read: 

“Miss Molly Finney:— 

“Your sister, Mrs. Means, of Flying Point (Freeport), 
Maine, has sent me to your rescue. I am Captain of the ’ Rose,’ an English 
trader, and can carry you home to your relatives if it be possible to get you on 
board ship. Let me know if a means of escape, or at least, if an interview,is 
possible. We can arrange matters if the latter could be effected. I will pass 
this door this afternoon at five o’clock—have your answer ready at that time. 

“Your friend. 


William McLellan.” 


MOLLT FIN NET 


I2I 


Never in Molly’s brief career had she experienced such 
tumultuous joy as at this moment. The kindly words burned into 
her soul; they were more precious tnan all the wealth of the 
Dominion would have been. When the clouds seemed thickest, 
and despair the deepest, behold, they are suddenly scattered by the 
meridian glow of an unknown sun! “Surely,” the happy girl 
thought, “ the darkest hour is just before day.” 

How joyfully she attended to the remaining duties of that 
eventful day, the reader can imagine. As soon as an opportunity 
offered, she slipped up to her room and penned the following reply 
to her would-be deliverer: 

“ Capt. Wm. McLellan:— 

“ I cannot express the gratitude that fills my heart for your 
kindness in seeking my deliverance from this captivity. The prospect of once 
more, and so soon, seeing my dear sister and those whom I feared were dead, 
thrills me with such joy that I fear it will be impossible to restrain my feelings 
when Monsieur Lemoine’s family is about. But I must. Their eyes are ever 
on the alert. The greatest caution is necessary. You must not be seen passing 
the house too often, or suspicion will at once be aroused. 

“ If you will come to the spot immediately under the second story window 
overlooking the alley (there is but one window there) to-night at midnight, I 
shall be ready to hold the proposed interview. Please be there at the appointed 
time, and do not speak above a whisper. 

Very gratefully, 

“ Molly Finney.” 

That evening, just as the clock struck five, the young sea 
captain leisurely strolled by Lemoine’s residence, apparently enjoy¬ 
ing the scenery about him, but glancing anxiously at the door 
whence a beautiful female form ought to emerge. When within 
thirty or forty feet of the spot opposite the door, it suddenly flew 
open, and Miss Finney, broom in hand, emerged, sweeping all 
“ trash ” before her. With an extra “ sweep,” Molly threw a tiny 
piece of paper at the feet of Capt. McLellan; The latter 


123 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


stooped and picked it up, sauntering on again as though nothing 
had transpired. 

The servant girl immediately returned indoors, well satisfied 
with the accomplishment of her scheme. 

Ten o’clock! The drudgery of the day is over, rest has at 
last come to the busy household. An inmate of the room over¬ 
looking the alley listens for the approaching footsteps of old 
Lemoine in the hall; at last she hears them. He comes nearer 
and nearer, then the squeaking voice pipes out, “Molly! Molly! 
You in ze room, girl !” “Yes sir, I’m here,” replies the young 
lady. “Veil, go to sleep, quick. You must be up early in ze 
morning,” and, turning the key, Molly’s lord and master retraced 
his steps to his own room. 

Left' to herself, the captive maiden began to recount the 
experiences of the day. She tried to imagine herself once more 
in the family circle at home, surrounded by those whom she loved, 
with the privilege of acting and talking as she pleased. Smiles 
chased each other over her features, her soft velvet eyes grew ten¬ 
fold more lustrous, while the excitement of the hour crimsoned her 
cheeks. 

“ In meditation the maiden sat— 

sat and waited, and wondered, and dreamed. It suddenly occurred 
to her that she had been very ready to believe in the sincerity of 
this stranger. How did it happen? Why had she not suspected 
him? Then she exclaimed, “ Bah! who could doubt such a face, 
such eyes, such frankness? Am I not a woman, and can’t 1 read 
truthfulness or treachery in any man’s face? Capt. McLellan 
has a noble heart, and could not deceive a poor unfortunate girl 
like me.^’ 

This conclusion seemed perfectly satisfactory, and Molly 
again anxiously looked out of the window for the appearance of 
Capt. McLellan. Presently, a dark figure was noticed gliding 


MOLLT FIN NET, 


23 


along the fence near by, and in another instant it was beneath 
her window. 

“ Miss Finney,” whispered the new-comer. 

“ Yes, I’m here,” was the reply which came from the window. 

“ Now we must talk fast, and arrange for your deliverance as 
soon as possible. Some one may come along and spoil the whole 
game. Are there any sleepers in the room below you ?” 

“None,” replied the girl, “that is the kitchen. I am alone in 
this room, and locked in.” 

“ Good,” said the Captain, “ is there anything up there you 
can fasten a rope to ? ” 

“ The bedpost,” returned Miss Finney. “ It is a large one, and 
quite strong, I judge.’^ 

“Very well. Now I have brought a rope along with me 
to-night, and if you are ready, we may complete this business 
without further delay. My vessel can be ready for moving by 
sunrise, if necessary. What do you say ? ” 

“ It v/ill take me but a moment to gather up my traps,” replied 
the young lady, “ and if you can wait, I shall be ready to accom¬ 
pany you to the ship.” 

“Certainly,” replied McLellan, “get ready as quick as 
possible, then I will throw you this rope, which you can fasten 
to the bedpost and descend.” 

Molly’s wardrobe was decidedly meager, hence it was not 
many minutes before the graceful form once more appeared at the 
window, ready for action. ' 

The rope was thrown up, the noose placed over the bedpost, 
and the announcement made that the occupant was ready to 
descend. With a firm grip Molly took hold of the rope, climbed 
out of the window, and noiselessly slipped down to the ground. 
Our heroine reached ier 7 'a JiriJia in safety, and in a moment, with 
her strong protector, was walking rapidly toward the wharf. 


124 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


A yawl was in waiting, manned by several of the Rose’s 
crew. Into this Capt. McLellan assisted his liberated captive, and 
soon they were swiftly gliding over the St. Lawrence. It was still 
necessary to observe silence, hence the oars were muffled, and not a 
word escaped the lips of any one. In about fifteen minutes from 
the time of leaving the shore, the yawl glided alongside a large, 
handsome vessel. 

“Now, Miss Finney,” said the commander, “permit me to in¬ 
troduce you to our noble ship Rose.” 

Molly was glad enough to stand upon the deck of that mon¬ 
strous habitant of the seas, especially since it was commanded by 
so gallant and noble-hearted an officer. 

She \yas shown to the cabin, refreshments served, and after ex¬ 
pressing her deep, heartfelt gratitude to her preserver, repaired to a 
richly furnished state-room, where the excitement of the hour was 
swallowed up in blissful dreams of friends, home, and—who 
knows what else? 

It is not the design of this sketch to relate, particularly.^ ‘'iny- 
thing not essentially connected with the capture and deliverance of 
its subject. Yet it would be cruel, indeed, to leave the young lady 
in such charming company as was found upon the Rose, without 
even hinting at what came of it. 

Life to her suddenly became full of bright hopes, present en¬ 
joyments, and great possibilities. The trip to Freeport from the 
St. Lawrence seemed not near so long or tedious as might be an¬ 
ticipated. There was so much beautiful scenery, and some one to 
point it out to her! Like a caged bird suddenly liberated, the 
maiden reveled in the delights of freedom—as well as congenial 
associations. 

At length the anchor was dropped in Casco Bay. In an hour 
from that time Molly Finney was enwrapped in the embraces of 
her relatives and friends, who showered kisses upon her, and bene- 


MOLL r FINNE T. 


*25 


dictions upon the bronzed seaman who stood by her side. The lat¬ 
ter seemed inclined to linger about Flying Point longer than busi¬ 
ness really required. To tell the truth, all that had been enjoyable 
aboard the Rose for several weeks, was ashore, and he fain would 
remain there also. He wanted the beautiful and fascinating girl for 
his wife, and determined to let her know it. More than a half dozen 
times aboard ship had he prepared himself to open his heart to the 
young lady, but somehow he didn’t know what to say when the 
time came. He could command a vessel; his clarion voice could be 
heard above the wildest storm, ringing out the orders which were 
quickly obeyed; but when it came to asking for the hand of a be¬ 
witching maiden like Molly Finney, every time he prepared to utter 
the fatal words, some roguish glance or word would throw him off 
the track —that wasn’t so easy to do. He therefore resolved to 
wait until ashore—such things could certainly be better attended to 
on land than on the tempestuous sea. 

One evening, as the two sat alone in the front room of the 
Means’ dwelling, Capt. McLellan said: 

“Molly! Fve been sailing a lonely sea all my life. I never 
thought it so until lately, but it has been lonely—it must have been. 
Don’t you think so ?” and the brave officer wiped his forehead 
violently. 

“Well, I don’t know, Capt. McLellan, what kind of a sea 
you have been sailing, but surely if it were always as smooth and 
pleasant as this trip, / shouldn’t call it lonely.” The blushes that 
mounted to Molly’s cheeks told that it was more than the “ smooth 
sea ” which made the trip so enjoyable. 

“ Why, bother it, there’s the trouble! This last trip has been 
so different from the others that—that—I wonder if you did not 
have something to do with it,-Molly?” Ah! It was almost ac¬ 
complished, but not quite. Gathering courage and strength from 
the last desperate effort, he exclaimed: 




126 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

“ Molly! The sea would be so much more delightful, the cabin 
so much more beautiful, the storms so much more easy to quell, 
if yott were only aboard. Won’t you, Molly, won’t you be the 
Captain’s wife, and help him guide his vessel over the broad ocean, 
and at last to drop anchor in the Port of Peace?” 

Of course, like any sensible girl. Miss Molly Finney said 
“ Yes.” She couldn’t say aught else to such a noble and handsome 
fellow as McLellan. Accordingly, before the Rose departed from 
Casco Bay, Capt. McLellan had Wedded the fair captive of Quebec, 
and as they sailed down the river of Time, finally casting anchor in 
the Port of Peace, many were the times that the story of their 
meeting was told; nor was that meeting ever regretted. Several 
children were born to the happy ])air, one of whom, Capt. William 
McLellan, Jr., attained notoriety as a brave and skillful navigator of 
the seas. 

























0 



VIEW OF BLOCK HOUSE. 


12.8 




































































































































LiFE OF SAMUEL AND JOHN ^^cCULLOUGfJ. 


CHAPTER I. 

f 

SAMUEI. m’cULLOUGH-FROM PRIVATE TO MAJOR IN REVOLU¬ 
TIONARY WAR-HEROISM-PERILOUS LEAP FOR LIFE-WELL 

EARNED SHOUT OF VICTORY-PATRIOTISM OF THE TRUE 

TYPE-THE LAST RIDE-INDIANS DESECRATE m’cULLOUGh’s 

REMAINS-BURIAL BY FRIENDS. 

On Short Creek, Virginia, there lived in Revolutionary days, 
a family by the name of McCullough. This family consisted of 
the parents and five children—three boys and two girls. One of 
the latter became Mrs. Elizabeth Zane, wife of Col. Ebenezer 
Zane, of frontier notoriety. The boys grew to manhood, robust, 
wirv, and skilled in all the intricacies of woodcraft. 

At the breaking out of the Revolution, Samuel immediately 
volunteered his services to the country of which he was a native, 
and which he loved. He was accepted first as a private, but 
finally reached the rank of Major, carrying to his grave a record 
for heroism not excelled by Roman gladiator or Hellenic athlete. 
Some of his marvelous adventures are almost incredible, yet fully 
authenticated by many eye-witnesses. He did not, like the 
Wetzels, Bradys, Boones, and others, have any deep cause of 
9 129 



130 FRONTIERSMEN PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

revenge against the Indian, but fought him for the sake of peace 
and his country. 

The savages became thoroughly acquainted with his prowess 
and unerring marksmanship. His superior qualities were rec¬ 
ognized even before Revolutionary days by his being frequently 
placed in charge of expeditions, where most of those under him 
were his seniors in age. 

The most remarkable adventure, perhaps, that befel hifn 
during his eventful career, and which causes the reader at this 
day to stand in awe at the intrepidity displayed, occurred near 
Fort Henry, Virginia, sometime in 1777. 

The inhabitants of that section, and especially of the little 
border town of Wheeling, received news of the approach of 
Indians. They were coming with painted faces and tufted scalps, 
said the messenger. “ Fly to the fort!” was the cry, and before the 
sound of the horseman’s voice had died away, each household thus 
warned was on a rapid march to the place of safety. Many of the 
males were out hunting, hence, when every one was reported as 
being within the block house walls, and the doors closed, the roll 
showed only forty-two fighting men. 

In a short time, squads of savages were seen approaching 
stealthily, concealing themselves, as far as possible, by the trees 
and brush, until it seemed the entire woods must be alive with 
them. Some four hundred braves, it is estimated, assembled 
around the little garrison. 

Firing was kept up for a while by the parties inside, until the 
men resolved to make a charge upon a band of reds near the fort. 
They therefore dashed out of their retreat, dealing death blows to 
all they met, but when a short distance from the fort, discovered 
themselves cut off by another band of savages. They immediately 
retraced their steps, endeavoring to fight their way through. 
Many were cut down, the heavy tomahawk clove skull after skull, 


SAMUEL AND JOHN MCCULLOUGH, 131 

until about twenty-five of the brave defenders lay still in death. 
The remaining sixteen reached the fort in safety after a most 
bloody conflict. 

The stratagem of the savages proved so successful as nearly to 
deprive the garrison of its protectors. But the sixteen men held 
the foe at bay for many a weary hour, while the daughters and 
wives brought ammunition and water, frequently exposing them¬ 
selves to the merciless rifle. 

A messenger had been sent to Major McCullough, who was 
not far away, requesting his assistance. Without asking any 
questions regarding numbers, nor waiting for unnecessary prepara¬ 
tions, the commander ordered his forty horsemen into the saddle, 
and made all possible speed to the rescue. Arriving at the scene 
of conflict, he was almost staggered at the large numbers surround¬ 
ing the block house. But immediately deciding that his success 
must lie in gaining admittance to the fort, he ordered his men to 
fight their way through. It was a terrible conflict. Every one, 
however, reached the open gate in safety but the brave commander, 
who had remained in the rear to encourage his men. The Indians 
at once recognized him, and desiring above all things to secure the 
noted pale face, with yells of hate crowded around him, completely 
separating him from the fort. Again and again did McCullough 
try to dash through their midst, but each time additional numbers 
barred his progress. 

At first it seemed strange that they did not shoot him, or 
crush his skull in with a tomahawk, but upon a moment’s reflection 
he concluded they desired to capture him in order to inflict great 
torture. This he determined they should never do. He would die 
there rather than be subjected to the flames, with a yelling band of 
inhuman wretches dancing around him. 

“ Finding himself unable,” says a biographer, “ after the most 
strehuous exertions, to accomplish his entrance, and seeing the 


132 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

uselessness of a conflict with such a force opposed to him, he 
suddenly wheeled his horse and fled in the direction of Wheeling 
Hill at his utmost speed. A cloud of warriors started up at his 
approach, and cut off his retreat in that direction, driving him back 
upon another party who blocked up the path behind; while a third 
closed in upon him on one of the other sides of the square. The 
fourth and open side was in the direction of the brow of a pre¬ 
cipitous ledge of rocks nearly one hundred and fifty feet high, at 
the foot of which flowed the waters of Wheeling Creek. 

“ As he momentarily halted and took a rapid survey of the 
dangers that surrounded him on all sides, he felt that his chance 
was indeed a desperate one. The Indians had not fired a shot, and 
he well knew what this portended, as they could easily have killed 
him had they chosen to do so. He understood the feeling of 
hatred felt against him by the foe, and saw at a glance the 
intention to take him alive if possible, that his ashes might be 
offered up as a sacrifice to the manes of their friends slain by his 
hand. This was to die a thousand deaths, in preference to which 
he determined to run the risk of being dashed in pieces. He 
struck his heels against the sides of his steed, who sprang forward 
toward the precipice. The encircling warriors had rapidly lessened 
the space between them and their intended victim, and, as they saw 
him so completely within their toils, raised a yell of triumph, little 
dreaming of the fearful energy which was to baffle their expecta¬ 
tions. As they saw him push his horse in the direction of the 
precipice, which they had supposed an insurmountable obstacle to 
his escape, they stood in wonder and amazement, scarcely believing 
that it could be his intention to attempt the awful leap, which was, 
to all appearances, certain death. 

“ McCullough still bore his rifle in his right hand, and carefully 
gathering up the bridle in his left, he urged his noble animal for¬ 
ward, encouraging him by his voice, until they reached the edge of 


SAMUEL AND JOHN MCCULLOUGH. 


133 


the bank, when, dashing his heels against his sides, they made the 
fearful leap into the air. Down, down they went with fearful 
velocity, without much resistance or impediment until one-half the 
space was passed over, when the horse’s feet struck fairly the 
smooth, precipitous face of the rock, and the remainder of the dis¬ 
tance was slid and scrambled over until they reached the bottom, 
alive and uninjured. With a shout which proclaimed his triumph¬ 
ant success to the foe above him, McCullough pushed his steed into 
the stream, and in a few moments horse and rider were seen sur¬ 
mounting the banks on the opposite side.” 

Thus was accomplished a feat in comparison to which the 
famous ride of Putnam sinks into insignificance. The Indians stood 
awe-struck, not venturing to follow, though afoot. No effort was 
made to capture the heroic Major, and he soon reached a place of 
safety, where he reflects upon the scenes of the past hojurs, and re¬ 
news his strength for the future. The fort was not taken—the In¬ 
dians soon found themselves rapidly lessening in numbers because 
of the unerring rifle from within, while it was utterly impossible to 
get near enough to fire the block house. Consequently, the main 
body withdrew, carrying with them many dead and wounded. 

Major Samuel McCullough passed almost entirely through the 
Revolutionary war, winning distinction wherever he fought, and he 
was never happier than when fighting the enemies of his country. 
He was a true patriot, as well as a bold and fearless soldier. It is 
sad, indeed, to chronicle the untimely death of such a man, which 
occurred about one year previous to the close of the war. 

It was in the autumn of 1782, that Major Sam and his brother 
(afterward Major) John, started out for Van Metre’s Fort. The 
brothers were horseback, and made no attempt at silence, little sus¬ 
pecting savages in the region where they were. Cheerfully they 
cantered along the well-known road, pleasantly chatting about their 
old home, or relating some war experience, when, without the least 


134 


FRONTIERSMENy PIONEERS^ AND SCOUTS. 


warning, came the sound of a score of deadly rifles. They seemed 
to be on both sides of the road. The gallant Major fell from his 
horse with an expression of pain, never to rise again. Several bul¬ 
lets had pierced his body, the wound from any one of which was 
sufflciently fatal to cause death. 

John’s horse reared, plunged forward, and fell, mortally 
wounded. Quick as a flash the unharmed horseman leaped to the 
saddle just vacated by his brother, put spurs to the steed, and amid 
another volley of bullets, made good his escape. Only one bullet 
struck him, and that inflicted merely a flesh wound. 

The dead brother lay in the road, and John, after getting a 
hundred yards away, stopped to take a last-glance. As be wheeled 
his horse to look, an Indian was in the act of taking the Major’s 
scalp. With great coolness the brother took aim, pulled the trig¬ 
ger, and ere the bloodthirsty savage had completed his work, a 
leaden messenger of death had visited his heart, producing death. 

With some satisfaction at least, John rode on, reaching the 
fort, and alarming the settlers to a sense of their danger. 

Thus ended the career of one whose life had been of the 
noblest type, and whose record in war and in peace is free from a 
single blot. In regard to the remains of the unfortunate Major, a 
recent writer gives the following: 

“ The next day a party went out from Van Metre’s and gath¬ 
ered up the mutilated remains of the poor Major. The savages 
had actually disemboweled him, but the viscera all remained except 
the heart. Some years subsequently an Indian who had been one 
of the attacking party on the occasion, confessed to some whites 
that the heart of Major McCullough had been divided and eaten by 
the party. ‘So that,’ he concluded, ‘ we be bold, like Major McCul¬ 
lough.’ On another occasion the Indian, when speaking of the inci¬ 
dent, said: ‘The white (meaning John McCullough) had killed 
a great captain, but they (the Indians) had killed a greater one.”’ 


SAMUEL AND JOHN McCULLOUGIL 


^35 


CHAPTER II. 

CAPTIVITY OF THE m’cULLOUGIIS-IMMERSION, AN INDIAN RITE- 

BROTHERS SEPARATED-SICKNESS AND INTENSE SUFFER¬ 
ING- SURGICAL OPERATION PERFORMED BY SAVAGES- 

RECOVERY. 

John McCullough, brother of Samuel, has left a full account of 
the captivity of himself and brother while they were youths, which 
so vividly portrays the sufferings of early frontier life, as well as the 
primitive education of these notorious men, that we here subjoin a 
condensed history of that experience. 

John gives us more of their early life than can be gleaned from 
any other source. 

His father lived in New Castle county, Delaware, where the 
two boys spoken of were born. About a year before Braddock’s war, 
Mr. McCullough moved to Franklin county, John being then about 
five.years old. After remaining here awhile, the family removed 
to York county, where they lived until the spring of 1756. At 
this time Mr. McCullough concluded to return to his old homestead 
in Delaware county, whence he had been driven by the savages. 
It was soon found to be verj^ unsafe, and before harvest time had 
come, the entire household was obliged to flee to the nearest settle¬ 
ment for protection. After a month or two the family again con¬ 
cluded to return home, in order to secure their crop, which was now 
ready to gather. They stopped, temporarily, at a neighbor’s, some 


13 ^ FRONTfBRSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


three miles distant, while the father-, mother, and oldest sister visited 
the home-place each day, and returned to their neighbor’s at night. 
On the 26th of July, 1756, the three oldest members of the house¬ 
hold, together with a man by the name of Allen, started as usual 
to their day’s work. Allen was going to Fort London, expecting 
to pass by the McCullough farm, and in the evening would return 
that way, when they all would go on together. 

Allen learned, however, soon after leaving Mr. and Mrs. Mc¬ 
Cullough’s, that a family had been ruthlessly murdered within a short 
distance of the latter’s home only the day before, and, taking alarm 
for his own safety, struck out in a circuitous route for the settle¬ 
ment. Upon reaching the house he had left in the morning, and 
where the McCullough children were, the dreaded news of the 
“ Indian sign ” was related. The family were of course in the 
greatest excitement, not only for their own safety, but especially for 
the McCullough’s, who were three miles distant. 

John and Samuel overheard the older people discussing the 
advisability of warning their parents. Who would go? Nobody 
desired the task. Their own homes were to be protected, and their 
own scalps preserved. Finding that no one was going, the two lit¬ 
tle fellows slipped out of the house, bare-footed and bare-headed, 
and made rapid tracks for their parents. The sun was almost be¬ 
low the horizon, when the brave boys reached the open space 
around the cabin. A few more steps, and they would be in the 
embrace of father and mother! Alas, those steps were not to be 
taken. As soon as they had started across the clearing, six or eight 
Indians rushed from concealment, seized the wanderers, and paying 
no attention to the screams of their captives, carried them hastily 
into the woods, and away from the house. 

It seems that Mr. and Mrs. McCullough were gathering flax 
a short distance from the house, and the former, thinking he heard 
the voice of his children, ran up to the cabin, called loudly for them, 


SAMUEL AND JOHN MCCULLOUGH, 


137 


but seeing nothing, returned to his house. The savages, hearing 
Mr. McCullough calling, stopped and sent back two of their num¬ 
ber to waylay him. Fortunately, by the time the two Indians had 
reached the cabin, McCullough had returned to the field, where he 
was concealed from view. Thus the capture of an entire family 
was prevented by the merest accident. 

John and Samuel were now rushed along at a swift pace, their 
captors fairly swinging them along by the hands. All day long 
was this speed maintained, until the little fellows were ready to sink 
from exhaustion. The Indians, however, tried to make it as easy 
as possible for them, and when at night they stopped for supper, a 
fowl was cooked for the boys, while the savages indulged in 
raw hog. 

For three days they traveled over mountains, through valleys, 
and across streams. One night John arose and endeavored to get 
away, but had gone only a few steps when his guard arose and de¬ 
manded his return. 

“ The morning before we came to Kee-ak-kshee-man~niLtoos, 
which signifies Cut Spirit,” says McCullough, “they pulled all the 
hair out of our heads, except a small spot on the crown, which they 
left. We arrived at the town about the middle of the day,-where 
we had some squashes to eat; the next morning we set out for Fort 
Duquesne. The morning after that we came to several Indian 
camps. Here the Indians gave us some bread, which was the first 
we had tasted from the time we were taken. About a mile or two 
before we came to the Fort, we were met by an old Indian, whose 
dress made him appear very terrifying to us; he had on a brown 
coat, no shirt, his breast bare; wore a breech clout, a pair of leggins, 
and moccasins; his face and breast were painted rudely with Ver¬ 
million and verdigris; a large bunch of artificial hair, dyed a crim¬ 
son red, was fixed on the top or crown of his head; a large triangu¬ 
lar piece of silver hanging to his nose, covered almost the whole of 


133 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


his upper lip; his ears, which had been cut according to their 
peculiar custom, were stretched out with fine brass wire, made in 
the form of, but much larger than that which is commonly fixed in 
suspenders, so that he appeared somewhat as you might imagine 
the likeness of the devil, 

“As he approached toward us, the rest said something to him. 
He took me by the arm and lashed me about from side to side. At 
last he threw me from him as far as he was able, then took hold of my 
brother and treated him in the same manner. Shortly after that 
they stopped and painted us, tying or fixing a large bunch of hawk’s 
feathers on each of our heads, then raised the war halloo, viz: One 
halloo for each scalp, and one for each prisoner, repeating these at 
certain intervals.” 

When the captors and captive children reached the fort, which 
was then in possession of the French, the boys were separated, 
Samuel being given to a Frenchman and John adopted by an Eng¬ 
lish-speaking Indian. They never saw each other more during 
their captivity. What must have been the feeling of these waifs, 
no one can describe. So far from father and mother, surrounded 
with hideous-looking savages, subjected to hardships which one of 
mature years might well shrink from, and without the possibility of 
ever finding their way home, their condition must have been abject 
indeed. However, the sequel will show how soon these forebod¬ 
ings were turned into real pleasure, and how rapidly a love for the 
wild, inhuman life of the red man, supplanted their natural and 
early devotion to parents and civilization. 

John was led around by a new brother, who appeared 
very proud of the little white boy given him. The various camps 
were visited, until all had been made acquainted with the youth. 
Toward evening of the first day in this new relation John was led 
down to the Allegheny River by two braves, for the purpose of 
baptizing him. This custom, which has ever been prevalent among 


SAMUEL AND JOHN MCCULLOUGH. 


• 139 


civilized Christian nations, to indicate the renouncing of old associa¬ 
tions and acceptance of new ones—the change from one condition 
of living to another—seems to be strictly adhered to by the North 
American Indians. Those interested in the study of the various 
races of men, may find something worthy of note in this feature of 
savage life. 

John could by no means divine the intent of this visit to the 
water. However, it was not long before he concluded it would re¬ 
sult in his departure from this world. 

The three climbed into a canoe, pushed out a distance from the 
shore, and then began the fun. The poor little fellow was roughly 
seized by the wrists and “ ducked ” under the water a half dozen 
times or more, until, gasping for breath, he begged them to stop. 
One of the Indians said: “Me no killim; me washim!” The 
nearly drowned boy thought this the severest washing he had ever 
experienced. He therefore besought them to let him get over into 
shallow water and wash himself. This they consented to, but 
when he would put his head under for a moment only, and then 
rise, one of the savages thought it too superficial. Savages, like a 
few good people in this world, of another color, thought an entire 
submerging of the body, or at least the head, quite necessary to 
symbolical purification. The one referred to, therefore, caught 
Johnnie by the neck and held him beneath the surface until he 
was nearly dead. 

After this they told him he was a true Indian. 

The lad was sent the next day to a town called Shenango.^ on 
Beaver Creek. Here he was formally adopted into the family to 
which his new found Indian brother belonged. He says that his 
uncle, the proprietor of the establishment, was a very good-natured 
Indian, treating him kindly for the most part during his long stay. 
One practice, however, which this “ kind ” hearted uncle instituted 
for Johnnie’s benefit, was to make him get up before daylight every 


140 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

morning, walk to the creek, and sit in water up to his chin, even 
when the ice had to be broken for the purpose. The uncle 
consoled the youth with the reflection that it would make him 
hardy. “Better,” thought John, “remain non-hardy for a time, 
than to undergo such discipline.” Of course, the comparatively 
delicate system of the pale-face boy was disarranged in a short 
time, and he was thrown upon a bed of sickness, from which it was 
very doubtful whether he would ever rise. He lay all the long, 
weary winter, suffering intensely at times, although considerable 
attention was given him. An old squaw was his doctor. Her 
treatment was herb tea, honey, and Indian meal. No cold water, 
no flesh of any kind, nothing with salt in it, could he have. In 
this condition the little sufferer passed many wretched months, 
until the muscles of his limbs contracted to such an extent that he 
could not walk. At length, as summer came and he grew better, 
his legs were straightened by force, and splintered and fin-ally 
regained their normal condition. 













SAMUEL AND JOHN MCCULLOUGH. 


141 


CHAPTER III. 

JOHN m’cULLOUGH, CONCLUDED-BARELY ESCAPES DROWNING- 

INDIAN METHOD OF RESUSCITATION-HORRIBLE PUNISHMENT 

-INDIAN DOCTRINES-COMPELLED TO QUIT HIS INDIAN LIFE 

-RELATIVES FOR A TIME FORGOTTEN-RETURNS TO FRIENDS 

AND CIVILIZATION-ENTERS ARMY-PROMOTED TO MAJOR. 

For a year after his recovery, the subject of this sketch played 
about the 'weik-'wau77t of his uncle, learning rapidly the language 
and the customs of those about him. He was taken on several 
expeditions, spending part of the time at Presque Isle and Fort Le 
Boeuf. It would be useless, perhaps, to enumerate here the 
incidents of each twelve months. One, however, is of considerable 
interest, in that it shows the treatment of children when in danger 
of death from drowning. 

Johnnie had gone out in a canoe, tumbled overboard, and was 
well nigh drowned when rescued by a stalwart savage. Dragging 
him ashore, the Indian threw him down, supposing the little fellow 
dead. “It happened,” writes McCullough, “that my head was 
down hill and the water gushed out of my mouth and nose. They 
had previously sent off one of the boys to inform my friends about 
it. After some time I began to show signs of life. He then 
lifted me from the ground-, clasping his hands across my belly, and 
shook me, the water still running plentifully out of my mouth and 
nose. By the time my friends arrived, I began to breathe more 


142 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


freely. They carried me up the bank to a wigwam, or house, and 
laid me down on a deerskin, where I lay till about the middle of the 
afternoon; at last I awoke,and was surprised to see a great number 
of Indians of both sexes standing around me. I raised my head, 
my older brother advanced toward me and said: ‘ An-moygh-t-ha- 
heeh a-moigh,’ that is, ‘ Rise, go bathe yourself.’ I then recollected 
what I had been doing. He then said ‘ if he should see me in the 
creek again, he would drown me outright;’ but the very next day I 
was paddling in the water.” 

An incident, showing a horrid punishment extant among the 
savages, happened while the lad was stopping at the house of his 
relative, and will here be given. 

Johnnie and a fellow playmate were having a good time 
together, while nearly every one else had left the village on a hunt. 
The lad playing with young McCullough, thought to • amuse 
himself by scaring the pale-face boy. He caught a snapping 
turtle from the creek, and endeavored to throw it upon Johnnie. 
The latter kept out of the way for a while, but finding his play¬ 
mate persistent in meanness, finally threw a stone at him, which cut 
a severe gash in his head. The blood flowed freely, and both 
lads were considerably frightened. Some of the Indians coming 
home told the boys that Mos-sooh-whese, their guardian, would 
punish them severely when he returned. Johnnie was advised to 
hide, which he did, but the other lad, fearless even in youth, stood 
his ground, saying, “ Mos-sooh-whese no whip meP The sequel 
will disclose the fallacy of his prediction. 

The guardian, on learning of the encounter between the lads, 
immediately ordered the young Indian out for punishment. A 
conflict ensued, the Indian boy denying the right of Mos-sooh- 
whese to scourge him. However, the latter soon overcame the lad, 
tied him to a tree, and then perpetrated the following punishment: 
An old gar’s head (a kind of fish) was brought out; this consisted 


SAMUEL AND JOHN MCCULLOUGH. 


43 


of a long bill about one foot in length, containing sharp, incisive 
teeth. One-half of this gar’s bill, with the gleaming teeth, was 
drawn over the tender flesh of the naked victim. From thigh to 
ankle, from shoulder to wrist, and diagonally across the back, was 
this scourge drawn, until the child was crimson with blood flowing 
from the gashes cut. 

This treatment the Indian lad submitted to with stoical forti¬ 
tude, never a tear appearing upon the swarthy cheek, nor a groan 
escaping the thin lips. 

Johnnie lay concealed where he could witness all this, and 
trembled with fear lest he might be discovered. After Mos-sooh- 
whese had satisfied his fiendish nature with one of the little fellows, 
he turned his attention to the lost one. Everywhere did he search, 
apparently, but in the right place. Realizing the uselessness of 
further avoiding him, Johnnie came forth and delivered himself up. 

The savage grinned with satisfaction over the prospect before 
him. The white child was bound, as had been his playmate, and 
the cruel barbarism repeated. Four times were the piercing gar’s 
teeth pressed into and pulled through the quivering flesh, cutting 
such gashes as were never after obliterated. The little fellow stood 
it as best he could, begging the while for mercy. The heartless 
savage was finally satisfied, untied the lad, sent him to bed without 
supper, and with nothing to soothe the painful wounds. 

Some doctrines and teachings, concerning which John Mc¬ 
Cullough heard while a prisoner, are full of interest to every student 
of that peculiar race. An Indian from another part of the country 
came among his tribe, pleading with them regarding their soul’s 
salvation. Perhaps the preacher had listened to some of the mis¬ 
sionaries of both the Protestant and Catholic faith, and had badly 
mixed his theology. At any rate, there was both wholesome and 
unwholesome doctrine in his creed. We will give it in McCul¬ 
lough’s own language, or rather as condensed by McKnight; 


144 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

“ The first or principal doctrine they taught was to purify 
themselves from sin, which they believed they could accomplish by 
the use of emetics, and abstinence from carnal knowledge of the 
different sexes; to quit the use of firearms, and to live entirely in 
the original state in which they were before the white people dis¬ 
covered their country; nay, they taught that fire was not pure 
which was made by steel or flint, but that they should make it by 
rubbing two sticks together, which I have frequently assisted to do 
in the following manner: Take a piece of red cedar, have it well 
seasoned, get a rod of box-tree, well seasoned, dig out a bit with 
the point of a knife, cut off the cedar about an eighth of an inch 
from the edge, set the end of the box-tree in it, having first stuck a 
knife in the side of the cedar to keep the dust that will rub out by 
the friction; then take between the hands and rub it, pressing 
hard upon the cedar, and rubbing as quickly as possible, and in 
about half a minute the fire will kindle. 

“ It is said that the prophet taught them or made them believe 
that he had his wisdom immediately from Kush-she-la-‘7nil-lang- 
up., or a being that thought us into being; and that by following 
his instructions they would, in a few years, be able to drive the 
white people out of the country. I knew a company of them who 
had secluded themselves for the purpose of purifying themselves 
from sin. Tliey made no use of firearms. They had been out 
more than two years before I left them. Whether they conformed 
rigidly to the rules laid down by their prophet, I am not able to 
say with any degree of certainty, but one thing I know, that sev¬ 
eral women resorted to their encampment. It was said that they 
made use of no other weapons than their bows and arrows. They 
also taught in shaking hands to give the left in token of friendship, 
as it denoted that they gave the hoart along with the hand; but I 
believe that to have been an ancient custom among them, and I am 
rather of the opinion that the practice is a caution against enemies, 


SAMUEL AND JOHN MCCULLOUGH. 145 

that is, if any violence should be offered they would have the right 
hand ready to seize their tim-rna-keck-can.^ or tomahawk, or their 
faughk-sheek-can or knife, to defend themselves, if necessary.” 

After young McCullough had been with the Indians some five 
or six years, a successful attempt was made by his father to rescue 
him. The boy was living at Mahoning, not a great distance from 
Fort Venango, at the time. The parent, hearing that a boy an¬ 
swering the description of his lost son was among the Delawares 
at Mahoning, dispatched a messenger for him. The messenger 
succeeded in purchasing the lad from the savages, and set out with 
him to the fort. We may imagine the joy experienced by the 
father of Johnnie at once more beholding “ his son which was lost,” 
and whom he had supposed dead. But the affection of the parent 
was not reciprocated. The mind of his son had almost entirely 
lost its recollection of his first five years in this world, and had 
been so impressed with the wild, weird life of the woods as to love 
the latter in preference to all else. In vain did the fond father en¬ 
deavor to awaken the dormant feelings of filial regard in the 
heart of the boy. When told that he was to be taken home—away 
from the Indians and forest life—he wept bitterly, and refused 
to go. It finally became necessary to tie him on a horse, from 
which he had thrown himself several times. The company of res¬ 
cuers, however, traveled homeward, and were congratulating them¬ 
selves on the success of their undertaking, when their booty sud¬ 
denly disappeared. They had camped for the night. Every one 
was wrapped in slumber but the lad. His eyes had not known 
sleep since being separated from his wild associates. At the hour 
of midnight he stealthily arose, cautiously glided from the camp, 
and was soon lost in the woods. Only a few minutes afterward one 
of the party awoke, discovered their treasure gone, and immediately 
gave the alarm. All hands were at once in pursuit. The dogs 
were set upon the trail, and succeeded in treeing the runaway. The 


46 FROJVT/EliSMEJV, PIONEEES, AND SCOUTS. 


nien came to the root of the oak where the little fellow had con¬ 
cealed himself, consulted awhile, and directly departed, not thinking 
it worth while to hunt among the branches above. As soon as the 
company had gone, the Ooy climbed down, and hurried through 
the woods toward an Indian village not far distant. The next day 
he met with friendly savages, who took him back to his home 
from which his father had sought to separate him. 

This circumstance shows the magnetic influence of Indian life 
upon the mind of youth, before the habits of a higher civilization 
have been matured. For two years longer did this willing captive 
remain with the red men. He loved their reckless, daring life, their 
bold adventures. He aspired to be a brave of the highest type. He 
longed to be skilled in the arts of woodcraft, the use of the bow and 
arrow, and capable of bringing down a foe in hand to hand conflict. 

Again, however, was cruel Fate to cut short his ambitious 
hopes for the future. His father once more learning the where¬ 
abouts of his son, set out a second time to the rescue. Indian allies 
were secured, who delivered the thirteen-year old lad to his parent, 
who took proper precautions not to have the experiences of the pre¬ 
vious trip repeated. John was securely bound and closely guarded 
until the McCullough homestead held him within its walls. For 
weeks, yea, months, did the parents keep a close watch upon him, 
until his mind and heart should be rid of their false affections. 
Gradually did the light of civilization sujDplant the darkness of bar¬ 
barism, and the natural affection for his own blood relations take 
the place so long occupied bj' adopted kin. 

The impressions of those eight years among the Delawares 
went with John McCullough all through life. He grew up to 
manhood, full of life and vigor, which fitted him for the border 
days in which he lived. When the Revolutionary war broke out, 
lie entered the army with his brother, both of whom reached the 
jank of Major, and did noble service for their country, 








INDIAN DANCE, 


» 

1.18 

















LIFB OF LEWIS WETZEL 


CHAPTER I. 

CHARACTER DEVELOPED BY FRONTIER LIFE-CAUSE OF ETERNAL 

HATRED-LEWIS AND JACOB PRISONERS-THEIR ESCAPE- 

PREPARATION FOR DEALING VENGEANCE-RUNNING EN¬ 
COUNTER WITH BRAVES-COMPANY ORGANIZED FOR RE¬ 
VENGE-LARGE NUMBERS OF RED MEN-REMAINS ALONE- 

RETURNS VICTORIOUS. 

In chronicling the lives of early frontiersmen, one frequently 

meets with characters not of the highest type, nor scarcely worthy 

/ 

the reputation their fellows have given them. The rude state of 
society and morals in the day of these men accounts for the cruel¬ 
ties and barbarities practiced and extolled. Men—good men in 
many respects—were guilty of savageries equal to the hated red 
man himself. It was considered perfectly proper to kill Indians at 
all times. This feeling led to the cultivation of a taste at once 
degrading and dangerous, for after awhile the blood of any human 
being would be considered lightly, were the practice of shedding 
it unrestricted. 

But the righteousness of destroying the Indian possessed the 
souls of the frontiersmen, and none more than the four or five Wet- 

149 



150 FRONTIERSMEN PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


zel boys, of Virginia. It was with them not only a duty owed to 
humanity, but sweet revenge. Ruthlessly had their old father been 
tomahawked, when unable to defend himself. Mercilessly had the 
red demons rushed upon the unprotected household, dashing out the 
brains of a loved mother and two younger brothers. Two of the 
older boys—Lewis and Jacobs—had been compelled to witness the 
awful tragedy, but the story of it made an equally deep impression 
upon the hearts of Martin and John. They swore eternal enmity 
to the destroyers of their parents, and their lives do not show that 
this revengeful spirit was ever subdued. 

Lewis was the oldest, being about twenty-three years of age when 
their home was so suddenly broken up. He became a perfect tiger 
among his bokl associates. No danger was too great for him, if an 
Indian scalp could be obtained. No hardship too severe, did but 
victory over his foe await him. 

The first wound ever received by Lewis was at the time of 
his father’s death. The boy was standing in the doorway, watch¬ 
ing the sport of his younger brothers, when suddenly a rifle ball 
whizzed by him, carrying with it a portion of the sternmji or breast 
bone, and inflicting an ugly gash across the chest. This was the 
premonitory rattle of that terrible onslaught which resulted in the 
death of most of the household, and the taking of Lewis and Jacob 
as prisoners. 

The two boys were hurried away from the scene of bloodshed 
into the deep and unknown forests of the red man. Their hearts 
throbbed with emotion at thus being ruthlessly severed from all that 
was dear to them, while the severities of the march added fuel to 
their sufferings. But as day after day sped on, their grief subsided 
into a settled hate for their captors, and a flxed determination to 
wreak fearful vengeance upon them, did the least opportunity 
arrive. 

After guarding them carefully for several nights, until the 


LEWIS WETZEL. 


5 


party had reached a safe distance from the fort, the Indians became 
a little careless, and permitted the boys to sleep without a guard. 
This did not escape the notice of Lewis, and he bided his time until 
a favorable opportunity might offer for escape. One night every 
savage drew his blanket about him and laid dowm to sleep. Jacob 
also closed his eyes, and was soon dreaming of home and friends, and 
tlie terrible future. But the older brother did not sleep. About 
midnight, when every one seemed to be in deepest slumber, he 
awoke his brother quietly, and suggested flight. Jacob at once arose, 
and the two glided noiselessly out of camp. But in their fear of 
detection they had come away without moccasins, and soon found 
it almost impossible to travel bare-footed. Lewis told his brother to 
wait for him, and he would retinn and get their moccasins. This 
was done, the brave boy risking his life when it seemed most preci¬ 
ous to him. Nor was this the most counigeous feat of that night. 
After returning to where he left his brother, Lewis bethought him 
of his father’s gun which was then in possession of the Indians. A 
second time he visited the camp, and secured the coveted treasure. 
Then hastily quitting that vicinity., the two boys were soon making 
space between them and their bloodthirsty captors. 

The Indians discovered their loss about two hours after 
Lewis and Jacob had fled. It created great excitement among 
them. The boys would have made fine warriors, thought they, 
and such captives must never be permitted to escape. In a 
moment every savage was upon his feet, and ready for the pursuit. 
They concluded the boys would endeavor to retrace their steps, and 
in that they were right. Accordingly, with hurrying tread, and 
stealthily, the pursuers wended their way through the forest. But 
the lads were expecting pursuit, and upon hearing the approach of 
footsteps, concealed themselves by the roadside. The Indians 
passed on. The boys then followed, but were soon obliged to re¬ 
peat their trick of concealment, when their pursuers returned. The 


152 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

Indians supposing, finally, that the captives had concealed themselves 
somewhere near the camp, and that daylight would discover their 
whereabouts, returned to the fire and waited for light. In the 
meantime Lewis and his brother were making fast tracks toward 
home. They crossed the Ohio River on a self-made raft, pushed on 
without rest or food, and soon found themselves once more among 
friends. 

This attempt to enslave the brothers added to the hate already 
rankling in their bosoms. Especially was Lewis incited to a life of 
undying revenge. He began at once to deal death blows 
wherever possible, until he acquired a reputation for cruelty even 
among his white associates. It has been asserted that he spared 
not even women and children when on the warpath, taking a fiend¬ 
ish delight in trying to exterminate the savage race. De Hass, in 
a sketch of his life, denies the accusation, saying that his strong arm 
was never raised against the innocent and unprotected. However 
this may be, an everlasting feud existed between him and the 
painted warriors. He studied woodcraft, that he might be able to 
outwit his enemy. He lived a hunter and backwoodsman, that his 
acquired skill in handling the gun, the knife, and the tomahawk, 
might fit him to cope with the wily native American. Killing In¬ 
dians with him was a life business, the same as slaughtering animals 
for market is the one pursuit of the butcher. 

A remarkable exhibition of fortitude and skill is evinced in a 
running encounter that Lewis Wetzel had with four Indians. 
He had gone with a friend by the name of Thomas Mills to the 
Indian spring, about ten miles from Wheeling, W. Va., to secure 
a horse belonging to the latter. Mills had been compelled to 
abandon his steed upon the approach of a large body of Indians, 
and it was supposed to be in their possession somewhere near 
Wheeling. He and Lewis therefore took their way toward the 
spring, where, as Mills had predicted, the horse was discovered. 


LEWIS WETZEL. 


153 


What seemed strange, however, was that he was tied to a tree— 
something very unusual for an Indian to do. Wetzel suspected 
treachery, and endeavored to persuade his friend against attempting 
to obtain it. Mills, nevertheless, cautiously approached the tree, 
untied the horse, and was congratulating himself upon a successful 
recovery, when “Crack! crack!” went two rifles, and the frontiers¬ 
man dropped, mortally wounded. 

Then came the race for life between Wetzel and the four 
bloodthirsty savages. The former started at once with all speed, 
thinking it possible to gain a sufficient advance to elude them. 
The wily pursuers, however, were at his heels, fresh and strong, 
expecting to capture him without difficulty. But they had mis¬ 
calculated somewhat. They had not made themselves acquainted 
with their supposed victim. The latter had practiced extensively, 
while no danger was nigh, the plan of loading his rifle as he ran. 
This was an extraordinary accomplishment, even in those times. 
Few, indeed, were the hunters that could do it. As a rule, when 
the barrel was emptied of its load, no help could be exoected from 
that source, unless a stop could be made. 

Lewis, seeing the warriors coming at full speed, and gaining 
upon him, concluded to check them if possible. He therefore 
suddenly stopped, faced them, took aim, and fired. One of the 
four leaped high in the air, and fell headlong to the earth. With 
an angry yell of defiance, the remaining trio quickened their pace, 
resolved to speedily avenge their brother’s death. Wetzel hastily 
put in his powder, wadding and ball, and when one of them had 
reached a distance almost near enough to hurl the tomahawk, he 
whirled and fired, and in another instant a second red man had 
fallen to the earth. 

This dampened the ardor of the chase for a moment, the two 
remaining hardly relishing their position, when, with that death¬ 
dealing weapon, their opponent could shoot, load or no load. 


154 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


However, they soon determined to run down the pale-face, cost 
what it might. It would be a terrible disgrace for one white man 
to outwit four young braves. So on they went again with 
renewed vigor. Wetzel by this time had reloaded, but was so 
nearly exhausted that he was very doubtful as to the outcome. 
The more muscular of the two savages rapidly gained upon the 
flying white, directly coming up within a few feet. The deadly 
tomahawk was raised on high—in another moment it would 
descend. But just then Wetzel turned, pointed his gun, and was 
in the act of pulling the trigger, when the savage grasped the 
barrel. It was a bold thing for the warrior to do, and roused all the 
lion in Wetzel. Exhausted as he was, the savage found an adversary 
in muscular strength equal to himself. The gun was wrenched, and 
twisted, and pulled, until finally the muzzle was brought directly 
against the Indian’s throat. The hunter, quick as a flash, pulled 
the trigger, and another cry of anguish told the fatal result. 

The remaining brave immediately came to a dead stop, but 
seeing the murderous white man again loading, he made tracks in 
the opposite direction, saying, “ Dat man never die—his gun alway 
loaded.” 

The Indians had been committing ravages near Wheeling. 
People had disappeared, cabins been burned, women and children 
had been made victims to the bloody knife and tomahawk, until 
the whites resolved upon revenge. A purse was raised, amounting 
to about ninety dollars, to be given to the individual bringing into 
the fort the first scalp. A party of considerable size was organized 
with Major McMahon at its head. Lewis Wetzel made one of 
the party. 

It was about the middle of the summer of 1786, when the 
Indian hunters crossed the river near Wheeling, and moved toward 
the Muskingum. Indian hunters they are called, yet they hardly 
deserve the appellation, as we shall see. Scouts being sent ahead, 





TRADING WITH INDIANS 
















































































156 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

reported numerous bands of red men encamped at no great distance. 
This news caused a halt. They sat down to consider the situation. 
Nearly every one of the twenty concluded their absence from that 
section a necessity, and their presence at home very much needed. 
The party unanimously—with one exception—said, “ Let’s go 
home.” That one exception was Wetzel. He remained silent. 

“Come, Wetzel,” said Major McMahon, “come, we’ve no 
time to fool away. The devils will be after us before twenty-four 
hours.” 

“Go!” said Lewis, “ I propose to stay. I came to get an 
Indian scalp, and I’m going to get it. More than one is within 
reach. If the rest of you want to go back home with your fingers 
in your mouth, you can, but I don’t go with you.” 

In vain did his companions expostulate with him about the 
hazardous undertaking of which he was thinking. Finally, they 
all departed but the lonely hero of the forest. It requires courage 
—courage of the very highest degree, thus to face death in pref¬ 
erence to accepting a humiliating safety. But Lewis Wetzel 
possessed that undaunted courage. 

Leisurely he pursued his solitary way in an opposite direction 
from the retreating party, ever cautious, ever ready to pull the 
trigger, did danger appear. Two days were thus passed without 
the least sign of Indians. He had begun to think the story of the 
scouts a fabrication, when, just after sunset, a smoke was. discovered. 
Waiting until the shades of night had settled over nature, the 
lonely hunter stealthily approached the camp. It was empty. 
The fire was slumbering low, while over it hung a kettle, and 
about were other marks of recent habitation. Lewis concluded the 
Indians were out on a hunt, and would soon return. Nor was he 
mistaken in this. Two of the dusky warriors came in directly, 
loaded with game, and set about getting their evening meal. 
The ranger lies motionless near by, awaiting the hour when they 


LEIV/S WETZEL. 


^57 


shall finish their supper, cease their joking, and wrap themselves 
for slumber. That hour, however, was not to come. One of the 
red men, about ten o’clock, shouldered his gun and started out to 
attend to some game left in the woods. The other laid down by 
the fire, and was soon lost to consciousness. Wetzel could easily 
have slain the sleeping savage, but desired to dispatch both of them, 
therefore he waited for the returning footsteps. Hour after hour 
sped away, and still he waited; throughout that long, dismal night 
did this heroic child of the forest lie concealed, until he might have 
the privilege of securing two scalps instead of one. 

It was almost daylight; faint streaks were beginning to herald 
the coming light in the east, when, despairing of the other’s 
return, Wetzel silently approached the slumbering foe, drew his 
long knife, and in a moment had sent him to his long hunting 
ground. 

The scalp was secured, the object of the expedition gained, 
and nothing remained but to trace his steps homeward. This was 
^ successfully accomplished in a few days, where, to the crestfallen 
associates, the victor displayed the much prized scalp, and received 
the reward. 



♦ 










FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


15^ 


CHAPTER 11 . 

HIS RESOLVE-A COLD-BLOODED SLAUGHTER-PEACE TREATY- 

BRAVES CALLED TO A CONFERENCE-SPORT AT THE RED 

man’s EXPENSE-ATTEMPT TO PUNISH THE OFFENDERS- 

SEIZURE - IMPRISONMENT - FLIGHT - REWARD FOR HIS 

CAPTURE-RECAPTUP^E-TRIAL-RELEASE-HIS LAST DAYS. 

One of the most cold-blooded slaughters of which Lewis 
Wetzel was guilty, occurred one fall while he was wandering 
through the Indian country alone. It seemed that this singular 
and intrepid man had vowed never to let a year pass without 
increasing his store of scalps. If there were no regular battles to 
be fought, if the country would not send him to the joyous task of 
exterminating the hostile red skins, then he would go alone. 

This particular autumn he shouldered his trusty gun, bade a 
hasty farewell to his family and friends, and plunged into the 
woods, not to return until he could do so with more than one 
scalp dangling at his belt. The Muskingum River was his 
favorite resort, and to this region the daring hunter took his way. 
There were hunting and scalping parties all up and down this 
river. Accordingly, Wetzel had been upon its banks but a few 
hours, when smoke in the distance disclosed the resting place of 
enemies. Upon reaching the vicinity, four swarthy forms were 
seen wrapped in the mantle of sleep. Four muscular, athletic 
Indians against a single “ pale-face ” appears decidedly unequal, and 


LEWIS WETZEL. 


159 


a man acquainted with fear would have kept a respectful distance 
from the sleeping warriors. But the Indian hater near them 
resolved upon immediate work, and that aggressive. He ap¬ 
proached the camp, laid aside the faithful rifle, took a knife in one 
hand and a tomahawk in the other, and stepped boldly among 
them. As he raised on high the death-dealing instrument, he gave 
a terrific yell, and let it fall. The skull upon which it fell was 
crushed through and through. Before the noise had fairly 
awakened the remaining three, another blow settled a second. 
Then, as the third was rising, half unconscious, confused by the 
terrible din that Wetzel and the half-slaughtered savages were 
making, he, too, was struck down, never to rise again. The fourth 
having gained his feet, instead of attempting defence, darted away 
into the darkness, and was never more seen by the fell destroyer. 

With savage delight Wetzel now contemplated the successful 
termination of his night’s work. The three victims were relieved 
of their scalps, and left for the beasts to devour. The hunter was 
asked when reaching home, what success he had. “ Not much,” 
said he, “ I treed four Indians, but one got away.” 

Gen. Harmar had been endeavoring for some time to get 
the various Indian tribes to sign a treaty of peace. He was not as 
well acquainted with the noble red man as were the settlers about 
the fort. The General imagined that an explicit peace treaty, 
duly agreed to and signed by the leading chiefs, would forever 
settle the difficulties constantly arising between the whites and 
natives. Perhaps it would, but the frontiersmen—those who had 
lived among these treacherous foes of civilization all their lives—- 
had somehow grown skeptical on that point, and they were 
rather inclined to doubt the possession of that admirable quality, 
known as truthfulness, by our friend, the Indian. Consequently, 
when Gen. Harmar arranged for a conference, calling in large 
numbers of the dusky braves to Fort Harmar, two of thp settlers—- 


l6o FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

Lewis Wetzel and Veach Dickerson—concluded to have a little 
sport at the noble red man’s expense. 

They secreted themselves between the Indian camp and the 
fort, intending to pluck off the first passers-by wearing a tuft of 
feathers. They had not long to wait. The sound of horses’ hoofs 
was soon heard, and directly a savage came in view, riding at full 
speed. The men recognized the warrior as being a leader among 
his fellows, whom the whites for some reason had named George 
Washington. He was a peaceably disposed Indian, but it mattered 
not to these ruthless rangers. As he reached a favorable spot, two 
rifle shots rang out upon the air, the warrior clapped his hand 
upon his thigh, as though struck, but never moved from his seat. 
How both balls should have missed bringing him down was a 
mystery. The truth of it was that the balls had passed through 
the man’s body, each having struck in the thigh and entered the 
abdomen, but with stoical fortitude, the brave held his seat upon 
the pony until out of reach of his enemy. That night he died. 

Wetzel and Dickerson realized what a stir this circumstance 
would create. They knew that by neither the soldiers nor the 
Indians would mercy be granted. It did not take them long, there¬ 
fore, to rid that immediate neighborhood of their presence. The 
Mingo settlement, where they lived, would receive them, and for 
this they made quick steps. 

As the affair was considered a good joke among the Mingo 
Bottom settlers, they were not at all careful about disclosing the 
names of the perpetrators. Gen. Harmar finally heard that 
Lewis Wetzel was the murderer of “ George Washington.” As 
was perfectly proper, he determined to bring the perpetrator to jus¬ 
tice. It would never do to let such breaches of trust go unpun¬ 
ished at that critical moment. A company of men, under Capt. 
Kingsbury, was sent down to take the offender. 

Upon reaching their destination, it was learned that the settlers 


LEWIS WETZEL. 


6 l 


were all out to a shooting match, some distance away, Wetzel be¬ 
ing one of the number. Kingsbury, with his company of soldiers, 
set out immediately to capture him. The news reached the crowd 
of frontiersmen before the soldiers did. Great excitement ensued. 
The idea of one of their number, and the leader at that, who had 
saved more women and children from death than there were sol¬ 
diers at Fort Harmar, being tried and hung, simply for killing a red 
dog of the forest! It was preposterous—it was an insult, and 
should be so treated. Every man crowded around Wetzel and 
swore eternal fidelity. An attack was resolved upon. Instead of 
waiting for Kingsbury and his force to surprise them, they would 
ambush by the roadside and shoot down the entire company. 

Major McMahon very fortunately was present, and prevailed 
upon his border friends to wait an hour, until he should advise Capt. 
Kingsbury to withdraw. This was agreed to, and the hunters 
waited with great impatience. Upon being informed as to the true 
state of things, Kingsbury very wisely concluded to retrace his 
steps. It was a victory for Wetzel which he considered complete, 
but the sequel will show that the case was not yet altogether 
settled. 

It was not a great while after the events recorded, that Lewis 
Wetzel started down the Ohio River to Kentucky. Remembering 
that a friend lived on an island not far from Fort Harmar, he con¬ 
cluded to pay him a visit. Accordingly he turned his canoe in that 
direction, and found Mr. Carr, his friend, at home, and very much 
pleased to see him. But Gen. Harmar heard that evening of Wet¬ 
zel’s whereabouts. The General was determined to recapture the 
daring frontiersman, if possible. A posse of soldiers was immedi¬ 
ately dispatched upon this errand. They reached the island after 
dark, and waited until all should be asleep. About midnight the 
cabin was quietly entered, and Lewis Wetzel seized by six or eight 
men, before any one had awakened. When Lewis opened his eyes 



A PERILOUS ADVENTURE 




































































































































LEWIS WETZEL. 


63 


he was in the hands of an armed force which it would be use¬ 
less to resist. They hurried him to the boat and then across to 
the fort. 

Harmar was greatly rejoiced at this successful kidnapping, 
ordered Wetzel to be thrown into the guard house, heavily ironed, 
and dieted upon bread and water. 

It was a sad blow to the roving, independent ranger. Death in 
battle would have been far more j^referable to him than incarcera¬ 
tion for any length of time in such a place, with the prospect of 
the gallows in the future. He sent for Gen. Harmar and begged 
to be given to the savages—anything rather than stay where he was. 
He said: “ Let the Indians form a circle, fully armed, and place 

me within it, with a tomahawk and knife. I can then either go 
free or die fighting.” But Harmar refused, saying it was not in his 
province to inflict any punishment of that nature—the scaffold was 
the one fixed by military law. 

Day after day passed away, wearily enough to the prisoner 
within the walls of his narrow cell. Again he sent for the com¬ 
mander, and again Harmar condescended to answer the summons. 

“General,” said Wetzel, “ this is a terrible life; I am dying 
every day. These heavy irons about my ankles and wrists, with 
no power to move about, is worse than hanging. Won’t you give 
me an opportunity to breathe a little fresh air, and exercise my legs 
a bit.? Put plenty of guards over me, but for Heaven’s sake let me 
have a change.” 

“ Well,” said the General, “ I guess you can go out on the bank 
of the river a little while. Be sure, however, to make no attempt 
to escape, for it will be useless, and you’ll suffer for it.’* 

Wetzel then had his feet unbound, but his handcuffs were left 
on, and he was permitted to leave the cell under a heavy guard. 

He pretended to be overjoyed at his release from imprison¬ 
ment. He talked freely with the guard, gained their confidence, 


164 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


and then began to ^^lan for escape. He asked permission to run up 
and down the bank, which was granted. Each time he did this, he 
would go a little further. Finally he reached a distance of two 
hundred feet from the guard, then summoning all his athletic pow¬ 
ers, leaped forward a few strides, and disappeared in the woods. 
The guard fired, but not a shot took effect. Harmar was immedi¬ 
ately apprised, and ordered soldiers in all directions. Nor did he 
limit the privilege of hunting Wetzel to soldiers. The savage was 
put upon his track, with instructions to bring him in, dead or alive. 
Wetzel in the meantime bounded through the well-known woods 
like a deer. A thicket some four miles away he thought would 
make an excellent hiding place. This he reached, and crawled in¬ 
to its meshes as deeply as jDOssible, until he came to an old log. A 
small space under the log was vacant, into which Lewis wedged his 
body, and waited developments. They soon came. Two dusky 
forms were seen approaching, tomahawk in hand, peering with 
eager gaze into every nook and corner. They reach the thicket. 
They cut their way through the undergrowth to the log. Has he 
left tracks? Do they see him? It was a painful moment. But one 
of them climbs upon the log and strikes it a few blows to make 
sure it is not hollow! 

Had Wetzel’s hands been loosed, he might have jumped from 
his covert and taught his pursuers something of the danger they 
were in. But he was powerless. There he lay, expecting every 
moment one of them to look beneath the log and discover what it 
concealed. But they did not. With a sigh of relief Lewis saw 
them depart, fully convinced that their victim was in other 
quarters. 

He lay in this place until night. What to do next was a ques¬ 
tion which perplexed his brain. He had no friends except on the 
opposite side of the Ohio. It would be utterly impossible to swim 
that with his hands tied, and it was equally impossible to make a 


LEWIS WETZEL. 


165 

raft. Finally he wandered down to the river by a circuitous route, 
opposite the cabin of an old friend by the name of Wiseman. The 
man was out in his canoe, fishing by moonlight. Wetzel beckoned 
to him, being afraid to call, and in a few moments Wiseman had 
crossed to where the escaped prisoner stood. They both returned 
to the former’s cabin, ate a hearty supper, and passed the remainder 
of the night in discussing their experiences. Wetzel realized that 
a “friend in need” was a “friend indeed,” that night. In fact, for 
several days it was necessary to remain concealed, but after a while, 
supplied with a rifle, ammunition and a blanket, he started again on 
his journey down the Ohio. 

Fate seemed to have determined against Wetzel, however, in 
his dealings with Gen. Harmar. The latter had been placed in 
command at Cincinnati. Hearing that Wetzel was somewhere in 
that region, he immediately offered a reward for his capture, yet it 
did not have the desired effect, as no one would betray an Indian 
killer in those days. 

It is said that Wetzel met Lieut. Kingsbury, of Harmar’s com¬ 
mand, in the street at Point Pleasant soon after the reward was 
offered, but Kingsbury contented himself with the remark: “ Get 

out of my sight, you Indian killer!” and passed on. 

Lewis continued his journey down the Ohio, and finally 
stopped at Limestone, Ky., where he lived for a number of years. 
As has been intimated, he was destined to be put again into the 
hands of Harmar. McKnight seems to be the best authority on 
this part of his life, hence we quote from him: 

“While engaged in hunting at Maysville, Lieut. Lawler, of 
the regular army, who was going down the Ohio to Fort Wash¬ 
ington, in what was called a Kentucky boat, full of soldiers, landed 
at Maysville, and found Wetzel sitting in one of the taverns. Re¬ 
turning to the boat he ordered a file of soldiers, seized Wetzel and 
dragged him on board the boat, and without a moment’s delay. 



i66 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


pushed off. That same night he delivered him to Gen. Harmar, at 
Cincinnati, by whom he was again thrown into irons, preparatory 
to his trial and subsequent condemnation for what Lewis disdained 
to deny or conceal, the killing of the Indian at Marietta. 

“The story of Wetzel’s captivity—captured and liable to pun¬ 
ishment for shooting an Indian merely—spread through the settle¬ 
ment like wild fire, kindling the jDassions of the frontiersmen to a 
high pitch of fury. Petitions for his release came in to Gen. Har¬ 
mar from all quarters and all classes of society. To these at first 
he paid little attention. At length the settlements along the Ohio, 
and even some of the back counties, began to organize to effect the 
release of the prisoner by force of arms. Representations were 
made to Judge Symmes, which induced him to issue a writ of 
habeas corf us in the case. John Clawson and other hunters of 
Columbia, who had gone down to attend his trial, went security for 
Wetzel’s good behavior; and,being discharged, he was escorted with 
great triumph to Columbia, and treated at that place to a supper. 

“Judge Foster, who gave these last particulars, described him 
at this period (August 26, 1789,) as about twenty-six years of 
age, about five feet, ten inches high. He was full-breasted, very 
broad across the shoulders; his arms were large; skin darker than 
the other brothers; his face heavily pitted with the small pox; his 
hair, of which he was very careful, reached, when combed out, to 
the calves of his legs; his eyes remarkably black, and piercing as 
the dagger’s point, and when excited,sparkling with such vindictive 
glances as to indicate plainly it was hardly safe to provoke him to 
wrath. He was taciturn in mixed company, although the life of 
the party among his social friends and acquaintances. His morals 
and habits, compared with those of his general associates and the 
tone of society in the West at that day, were quite exemplary. He 
certainly had a rare scalp—one for which the savages would at any 
time have given a dozen of their best warriors.” 


LEWIS WETZEL. 


67 


Lewis Wetzel never again fell into the hands of Gen. Harmar. 
Soon after being released by the Columbia court, he assisted a 
friend in rescuing the latter’s affianced from the merciless hands of 
half a dozen red men. This was a perilous adventure. He then 
concluded to visit the South. He therefore took passage on a flat 
boat for New Orleaes, where he remained a considerable length of 
time. 

It was while at New Orleans that he became, or was reported 
to have become, too intimate with a certain Spanish lady, the wife 
of a citizen of this place. The husband had him arrested, and for 
two years the wild hero of the plains languished wdthin prison 
walls. His friends have endeavored to prove his entire innocence 
of this base charge, and have partially succeeded. However, it is 
not improbable that even as moral a man as Wetzel should have suc¬ 
cumbed to the temptations prevalent in the country in that day. 

After his incarceration at the Southern metropolis, Lewis vis¬ 
ited his old haunts near Wheeling, Va. He did not remain long 
at home. The report of his imprisonment had reached his friends, 
and he found himself no longer regarded as the protector of the un¬ 
protected and defender of the innocent. A second visit to the South 
was therefore determined upon and executed. He vowed vengeance 
upon those who had ruined his reputation, and very likely meted 
out to them something, at least, for their accusation. 

He continued to roam over the country from North to South— 
never stationary, always loving the wild life of the border. If 
parties desired relatives rescued from the savages, lands located, 
messages to dangerous localities delivered, Lewis Wetzel was the 
safest man to be secured. He was regarded as one of the most 
efficient scouts that ever braved the perils of frontier life. 

It was this reputation that caused Gen. Clark to send for him, 
when the momentous trip across the Rocky Mountains was con¬ 
templated. This was to be the most hazardous undertaking ever 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


168 

indulged in by Western ranger. It therefore required the cream 
of the border element—men not only brave, skillful and strong, but 
possessing indomitable perseverance. For a road was to be trav¬ 
eled never seen by white man. Terrors were to be encountered 
sufficient to make the stoutest heart quail and the strongest knee 
to bow. 

Wetzel, after considerable reluctance, consented to accompany 
the expedition. Those who have read the history of this marvelous 
march—the first one ever made by civilization across the Rockies— 
need not here be made acquainted with the thrilling adventures ex¬ 
perienced. Suffice it to say, that Lewis remained with Clark about 
four months, when, half sick and tired of so useless a sacrifice as 
they seemed to be making, he retraced his steps homeward. 

Very much broken down by his numerous hardships, the hero 
of this sketch made his way to the home of a friend near Natchez, 
where for the remainder of his days, he lived a peaceful and un¬ 
eventful life. In the year 1808 all that was mortal of Lewis Wet¬ 
zel, the soldier, the scout, the trapper, the Indian hunter, the 
explorer, was laid away* in the silent grave, while his spirit took its 
bight to its God. 























f 



KENTON SHOOTING INDIANS. 


170 












LIFE OF GEN. SIMON KENTON, 

[AZ/AS BU7^LER.\ 


CHAPTER I. 

BIRTHPLACE-CAUSE OF WILD LIFE-^JOINS BAND OF ROVERS- 

DOWN THE OHIO-SEEKS AN “ ELDORADO ”-RETURNS TO 

SAI.T IHCK - TRAPPING AND HUNTING - SURPRISED BY 

INDIANS-KENTON AND YAGER REACH THE OHIO. 

There is little known concerning the early career of the 
subject of this sketch. We have the place of his birth given as 
Fauquier Co., Va.', the time May 15, 1755. One circumstance 
is handed down to us, which alone forms the key to his wild life 
in the far West. It is an altercation which took place between 
himself and one William Veach, a German. 

Veach and Kenton happened to fancy the same rustic maiden. 
The fancy ripened into an affection with each of the young men, 
and, as a matter of course, created a jealousy that ere long 
enerendered hatred, differences and insults. 

It became apparent to all who understood the peculiar 
relations sustained by the two, that the one method of settling such 
little differences in those days must be resorted to, viz., a personal 
encounter. At length Kenton, who was a tall, lank, lean, 

171 



172 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

awkward youth of about eighteen 3^ears, challenged his adversary 
for a free fight. It was immediately accepted, and the two 
combatants withdrew for the affray. 

Only a few were permitted to witness the tragic scene, but 
those who did, pronounced the result as being decidedly against 
Kenton, In fact, it is pretty well authenticated that Veach, who 
was much the older and heavier, gave his rival the severest drub¬ 
bing known to pugilistic circles. The fight over, Kenton of course 
withdrew, not only from the scene of his disgrace, but also from the 
number of those who sought the fair coquette of the neighborhood. 
His defeat was indeed hard to bear; it was almost annihilating, as 
far as social intercourse with the young people was concerned. For 
one who could neither win in the contest for a fair lady, nor yet in 
battle, was surely in nowise a hero, and anything short of heroism 
in some particular, at that day, deprived the unfortunate one of 
“good society.” The.young man remained quietly at home for 
some time, never caring to mingle with the crowds on festive days, 
until an opportunity should offer for regaining his lost ground. He 
concluded to wait a year or so, until, by practicing and additional 
natural strength, he could again call his opponent into the ring, and 
turn the tide of battle in the other direction. Accordingly, about 
ten or twelve months from the first conflict, Simon stalked forth 
from his father’s house, to meet the foe. No one should witness 
this scene in the drama. If defeat was again to crown his efforts, 
the world should be none the wiser; if an opportunity offered to 
completely crush the destroyer of his hopes and reputation, then, 
perhaps, it were also better that the populace knew little about it. 

Walking boldly up to the cabin of Veach, Kenton called him 
out, and made known his business. The former, still conscious of 
his superior strength and skill, immediately" consented to retire to a 
convenient spot, where the second duel should be fought. Without 
a physician, without seconds, the burly backwoodsmen proceeded 


GEN. SIAfON KENTON. 


73 


together to a place of concealment. Reaching the spot, each 
squared himself for the encounter. A little sparring was indulged 
in, when Kenton leaped upon his antagonist with the ferocity of a 
tiger. The two clinched, and wrestled, and struggled, and finally 
fell, with Veach uppermost. Still Kenton would not think of 
defeat. He struggled manfully for freedom, but the stalwart Dutch¬ 
man held Kenton as in a vise, maltreating him the while at a fear¬ 
ful rate. Finally, by an almost superhuman effort, Kenton raised 
himself, and threw his opponent backward upon a briar bush near 
by. As quick as thought he caught the German’s long, curly hair 
and entangled it among the briars. It was a fatal move for Veach; 
he could stir neither hand nor foot to any advantage. Finding he 
had his adversary “ trapped,” Kenton began to ply the strokes with 
fist and club, with terrible effect. His revengeful nature was all 
afire, and scarcely anything short of death would now satisfy him. 
The unfortunate German was soon knocked senseless, but even this 
did not stop the punishment. Not until it seemed that life was ex¬ 
tinct, did the furious youth cease the flogging. Then, seeming to 
realize all at once the extremity to which he had gone, and that his 
rival was gasping for breath, and probably would die in a few min¬ 
utes, he took to his heels and made fast tracks for other regions. 

Kenton knew it would no longer be safe to remain in the 
neighborhood if Veach died, nor in fact in any place where law 
could reach him. He therefore turned his steps toward the Ohio. 
Thus was driven into exile a young man of rather lemaikable facul¬ 
ties, mental and physical, who afterward was to appear as a brave 
defender of his people, and a godsend to many a helpless family. 

Wandering on without a definite objective point, his only con¬ 
cern being to rid the country of his presence, Simon Kenton, after 
a few days, found himself in a strange land and among strange peo¬ 
ple. Stopping only to rest for the night and cook a morsel to eat, 
he slackened not his pace until the lofty peaks of the Alleghenies 


74 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


came in sight. At a place called Warm Springs he met another 
exile from home, Johnson by name. The usual salutations were 
passed, some inquiries made, and the two became friends. Johnson 
was from New Jersey, and had been obliged to flee on account of 
some crime similar to that which occasioned Kenton’s flight. Of 
course, after each was convinced that the other was not a detective, 
confidential terms were agreed upon, and the two traveled on, much 
pleased with having the loneliness thus broken. They crossed the 
mountains and nearly reached the Monongahela River, when Ken¬ 
ton concluded to join a band of rovers who were going down the 
Ohio. The two therefore separated, Johnson continuing on his 
way, and his companion soon embarking for southwestern climes. 

As is always the case in a promiscuous crowd, three young 
men of the party, including Kenton, formed an intimate acquaint¬ 
ance at once, and determined to “ jDaddle their own canoe ” down 
the river. The young men who were to be the special consorts of 
Simon, were named Yager and Strader. They had no intention of 
separating from the main party at first; but as they swept down 
the unknown stream, surrounded with new scenery at all points, 
their ambition was fired—they desired to see all the far-famed 
country of the West. 

Yager, it seemed, had once been a captive among the Indians 
of Kan-tuck-ee., and pictured out to his companions a country which 
he had heard described as an Eldorado—a land flowing with milk 
and honey, with abundance of game of every description, the most 
beautiful verdure, and remarkable mines of wealth, he said, to 
be found. So attractive did the young man make the picture 
appear that Strader and Kenton concluded to join him in a hunt for 
riches. 

Yager was quite certain he would know the point m the river 
where the landing should be made, having heard it many times 
described by his Indian friends. Therefore they pushed boldly on 


GEN. SIMON KENTON. 


175 


for more than a week, expecting every day to bring to their en¬ 
raptured vision this ideal land. But alas! it proved a vain hope. 

The present site of Manchester was reached before the explor¬ 
ers would give up their cherished plans. Upon arriving at this 
point Strader and Kenton refused to go further, avowing their dis¬ 
belief in the reality of such a dream as had actuated them thus far. 
A return was agreed upon, and the three set bravely to work 
against the stream. It was neither such rapid nor pleasant travel¬ 
ing up the river as it had been down, so when the vicinity of the 
Salt Lick and Big Sandy was reached, a halt was made. Here the 
young men remained for more than two years, engaged in trajDping, 
fishing, etc. Fort Pitt was their trading post, and many times 
during the twenty-five months of their stay, did the trappers march 
into the fort, loaded with furs and skins. Their business was a 
lucrative one. Trappers were scarce in those parts, and it required 
but little exertion and skill to amass a sufficiency. 

When at the height of their success, in the spring of 1773, the 
three young adventurers were suddenly surprised by a band of hos¬ 
tile reds. The Indians had approached the cabin noiselessly, and 
without warning poured in a volley of lead. Poor Strader fell, but 
the other two succeeded in making good their escape. All furs, 
arms and ammunition were necessarily left as booty for the savages. 
Not a mouthful of provision even, had Yager and Kenton time to 
secure. They, soon found themselves in an almost impenetrable 
wilderness, without a morsel of food, nothing with which to kill 
g;ame, and hostile Indians on every side. Being acquainted with 
the lay of the land, the two concluded it would be best to strike for 
the Ohio, in the hope of meeting with white traders. Accordingly 
the long and hazardous journey was begun. It was more easily 
begun than completed. The greatest caution was necessary to avoid 
Indians, while the most rapid progress must be made to reach the 
river before their strength gave way under the gnawings of hunger. 


176 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


At the close of the second day the weary travelers laid them¬ 
selves down beside a small camp-fire, feeling severely the want of 
stimulants, as well as the fatigue of traveling. Upon the next day 
their hunger turned to sickness, which grew worse and worse as 
the hours dragged on. The fourth day found them almost ready 
to lie down and die, so little hope inspired them of ever being able 
to reach their destination. But wearily they plodded along, 
scarcely uttering a word to each other from sunrise to sunset. 
Awakening upon the morning of the fifth, Kenton and his compan¬ 
ion, with almost superhuman effort, again began the wretched walk 
toward the Ohio. They knew the river was now not far off, and 
this stimulated them to put forth every energy of their being. Near 
the close of this day the ragged and emaciated young men fell, ex¬ 
hausted, upon the verdant banks of the stream. 








GEN. SIMON KENTON. 


177 


CHAPTER II. 

SOUTHWARD WITH TRADERS-SHORTEST ROUTE TO VIRGINIA- 

ALONE IN THE WILDERNESS-ENTERS HIS COUNTRY’S SER¬ 
VICE-SEARCH P'OR THE “ HUNTEr’s PARADISE ”-SUR¬ 
PRISED BY FRIENDS-RETURN-INDIAN SIGNS-THE CAMP 

ABANDONED. 

It was not long before a party of traders came along, who, 
being bailed, immediately landed and provided them with the neces¬ 
saries for renewing their lost strength. 

With this party Kenton and his companion journeyed down 
toward the mouth of the Kanawha. Here Dr. Briscoe, the cele¬ 
brated explorer, made his appearance, having just returned from an 
expedition. Simon procured a rifle and some ammunition from 
him for a nominal price, and, inspired by the glowing accounts of 
tne Doctor, determined toliunt awhile along the river alone. Ac¬ 
cordingly, when the others moved up the Ohio in their canoe, 
toward home and civilization, our hero plunged boldly into the 
forest and was seen no more for several months. The leaves had 
begun to turn and the trees were taking upon themselves the rich 
hues of autumn, as a substitute for the verdure of warmer days, 
when, weary of his solitary life, and loaded with the results of a 
successful summer’s work among the animals of that country, 
Simon Kenton retraced his steps toward the Ohio. Upon reaching 
this stream he met with a company of adventurers under command 


19 


178 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS, 


of Dr. Wood. They were bound for regions farther south and 
west, almost unknown at that day. The novelty and prospective 
excitement of such a trip captured young Kenton. He offered his 
services, which were gladly accepted. The party was to travel in 
canoes, landing wherever practicable, and making such observa¬ 
tions as opportunities might afford. Everything went smoothly until 
they reached the Three Islands. Upon landing here many signs of 
Indians were seen, and before they had been in the vicinity twelve 
hours, it was discovered that a large and hostile party of reds was 
approaching. The camp was at once thrown into the direst con¬ 
fusion, the entire company fleeing in every direction. Nearly all 
their equipments were abandoned, thereby rendering an extensive 
march through the unknown wilderness hazardous and painful. 

Dr. Wood, after collecting his scattered followers, concluded 
to take the shortest route for Virginia. Kenton had no particular 
desire to see Virginia, never having found out whether his early 
rival had died or not. But with the rest he moved forward until 
the banks of the Monongahela were reached. Here he permitted 
the others to proceed, while he stopped and built a craft for naviga¬ 
tion down the Ohio. 

Alone in the wilderness, he hollowed out a suitable canoe,, 
killed a little game, and launched once more upon the great tribu¬ 
tary of the Mississippi. Reaching the Kanawna—his old stamping 
ground—Kenton hid his canoe and took up his abode in the woods. 
Here he remained until the fall of 1774. About this time, hearing 
of Dunmore’s war, and having a keen relish for flghting, the trap¬ 
per determined to abandon his favorite pursuit, and shoulder the 
musket against the enemies of his country. Meeting with the 
notorious Simon Girty, who afterward distinguished himself as a 
renegade and murderer, Kenton was persuaded to accompany him 
as a spy. The two soon formed a great attachment for each other, 
^nd men better adapted for the dangerous work in which they were 


GEN. SIMON KENTON. 


179 


engaged, could not have been found in the land. They continued 
together throughout the war, when their services no longer being 
required, the two separated. The friendship that Kenton formed 
at this time with Girty was never broken, and afterward was the 
means of saving his life. 

After the premonitory rattle of the revolution—Dunmore’s war 
—had ended, Simon Kenton revisited the elysian fields of Kentucky. 
Two companions, like himself, filled with a desire to behold such 
scenes as had been described by Yager, accompanied him. It took 
many a weary day’s march to bring them to the desired spot. 
Finally, however, reaching the banks of the Lower Blue Lick, the 
hunter’s paradise burst upon their view. Elk, deer, and vast herds 
of buffalo could be seen in all directions. It was a magnificent 
sight. The three rangers stood spell-bound when first they 
emerged from the woods, and discovered this innumerable host. 
Yager had been doubted, ridiculed, and discountenanced, but now 
it was conceded that the half had not been told. 

With such game to occupy their attention, the three hunters 
spent many months. It was decided to found a settlement, and, if 
possible, induce others to enjoy this Eldorado of the West. The 
lonely cabin, however, remained by itself for many years, although 
finally the present town of Washington was laid out upon this 
lovely spot. 

One day, having gone out to bring in some skins and furs con¬ 
cealed several miles from their camp, Kenton and his companions 
suddenly came upon a couple of white men. The surprise was 
mutual. Little were either party expecting to meet anything but 
animals and savages in that far-off land. They greeted each other 
almost as cordially as would Robinson Crusoe a friendly face upon 
his lonely island. The strangers—whose names were Fitzpatrick 
and Hendricks—had come from Pennsylvania. While floating 
down the Ohio, a sudden squall capsized their canoe, precipitating 


FRONTIERSMEN PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS, 


i8o 

the occupants, with guns, ammunition, provisions, etc., into the 
angry river. Hendricks and Fitzpatrick had swam to the shore in 
safety, but were now almost famished and completely demoralizea. 
They were immediately supplied with food and invited to share the 
hospitalities of the little cabin. Hendricks accepted the invitation, 
but his companion had seen quite enough of Kan-tuck-cc^ and de¬ 
sired to retrace his steps homeward as quickly as possible. Finding 
that he was determined upon starting up the Ohio without further 
delay, Kenton and his companions kindly offered to conduct him to 
“ the 2:>oint ” (now Maysville). Accordingly, the four set off, leav¬ 
ing Hendricks, who was weary of traversing the tangled wilder¬ 
ness, to take care of things at the camjD. The trip to the Ohio was 
made safely, and Fitzpatrick bade a friendly farewell to the border 
men. Whether he ever reached home or not, we have been unable 
to ascertain. It is altogether probable, however, that the tedious 
journey was completed in safety, as no intelligence was ever re¬ 
ceived of his demise. 

Different was the fate of his unfortunate comrade. The 
treacherous Indian, ever on the alert to get a scalp and wreak ven¬ 
geance upon the invaders of his hunting-ground, found his way to 
the camp where the solitary sentinel kept watch over the slum¬ 
bering fires. Stealthily was the approach made, until, when within 
a few feet of him, the foe pounced upon their victim, pinioning his 
arms behind him in a flash, and making him prisoner with scarcely 
a struggle. After tormenting the powerless captive for a consider¬ 
able time, they helped themselves to whatever of use could be 
found, and hurried away, carrying Hendricks with them. They 
had not left the camjD more than an hour or two, when Kenton and 
party returned. To their dismay, it was discovered that their 
friend had been captured or murdered, and that Indians were un¬ 
doubtedly then in the near vicinity. With an unaccountable fear 
for their own safety, the rangers left the premises and made fast 




p: 



Kenton saving eogne. 


r8i 




/ 




































































i 82 


FRONTIERSMBNy PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


tracks for less dangerous quarters. His rapid retreat upon this oc¬ 
casion, scarcely coincides with the heroic character of Kenton else¬ 
where, and it is really to be doubted whether the party intended 
merely to escape. The probabilities are that an immediate evacu¬ 
ation of the premises was made, not to secure their own safety 
merely, but that a search might be made at once for Hendricks. 
The party, at any rate, had not proceeded far from the deserted 
cabin, before smoke was perceived in the distance, betokening a 
camp-fire. This created dismay in the heart of each, for well they 
knew the meaning of such a fire in the daytime. There could 
only be one solution, viz., poor Hendricks was being prepared for 
the stake. 

Considering that a small band of reds would never stop so 
near the captive’s home to perform such a deed, for fear of being 
pursued, Kenton and his companions concluded there must be a 
large crowd of the bloodthirsty wretches, and all efforts to rescue 
the victim would be in vain while daylight lasted. Accordingly, 
the party concealed themselves in an undergrowth, at a safe distance 
from the Indians, and bided their time. By the heavy smoke that 
arose for hours during the middle of the day, the watchers were 
convinced that their companion was being roasted alive, and that 
ere night should come, his spirit would be released. 

Finally, the dim twilight began to hover over nature, and a 
reconnoitering was talked of. After some debate, it was decided as 
useless to attempt a rescue at that late hour, and their only plan 
must be to wait until the savages had departed. 

It was sundown of the next evening before the trio ventured 
forth to learn the fate of their friend. Upon reaching the now de¬ 
serted camp, a skull and some human bones were found near a 
smoldering pile of fagots—the last remains of the unfortunate 
Hendricks. 


GEN. S/MOJV KENTON. 




CHAPTER III. 

WELCOMED AT BOONESBOROUGH-ATTACK UPON INDIAN TOWNS— 

AS SPY-NARROW ESCAPE-RECONNOITERING EXPEDITION- 

INDIAN HORSES AS BOOTY-CAPTURED-DOOMED TO THE 

STAKE-RUNS THE GAUNTLET. 

Shortly after the experiences related in the former chapter, 
Simon Kenton and his two companions hearing of a settlement 
not far off, called Boonesborough, resolved to abandon their lonely 
cabin and seek the society of fellow mortals. Reaching the new 
metropolis of Kentucky, the party was cordially welcomed, and in¬ 
vited to enjoy the hospitalities of the block house. 

At this time the unprincipled Governor of Canada was inciting 
the Indians against the Kentucky settlers by all means possible. 
Rewards were offered, not for prisoners of war, but for scalps. 
Thousands of savages put on the war paint and started forth, deal¬ 
ing death and destruction to men, women, children and homes. An 
able-bodied and courageous hunter like Kenton, was therefore as 
much valued by his associates as were the Roman citizens in the 
palmy days of that Empire. He was placed in charge of sev¬ 
eral expeditions against marauding bands of savages, and always 
distinguished himself by skill and courage. 

Finally, in the year 1778, Daniel Boone desired his presence, 
with others, in an attack upon Indian towns along Paint Creek. 
Kenton gladly accepted a place by the side of this heroic leader. 


184 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS 

“ Kenton acted as a spy on this expedition,” says McKnight, 
“and after crossing the Ohio, being somewhat in advance of the 
rest, he was suddenly startled by hearing a loud laugh from an 
adjoining thicket, which he was just about to enter. Instantly halt¬ 
ing, he took his station behind a tree, and waited anxiously for a 
repetition of the noise. In a few minutes two Indians approached 
the spot where he lay, both mounted upon a pony, and chatting and 
laughing in high good humor. Having permitted them to ap¬ 
proach him within good rifle distance, he raised his gun, and aim¬ 
ing at the breast of the foremost, pulled the trigger. Both Indians 
fell—one shot dead, the other severely wounded. Their frightened 
pony galloped back into the cane, giving the alarm to the rest of 
the party, who were some distance in the rear. Kenton instantly 
ran up to scalp the dead man and to tomahawk his companion, 
according to the usual rule of Western warfare; but when about to 
put an end to the struggles of the wounded Indian, who did not 
seem disposed to submit very quietly to the operation, his attention 
was arrested by a rustling of the cane on his right, and turning rap¬ 
idly in that direction, he beheld two Indians within twenty steps of 
him, very deliberately taking aim at his person. 

“A quick spring to one side on his part, was instantly followed 
by the flash and report of their rifles; the balls whistled close to his 
ears, causing him to involuntarily duck his head, but doing him no 
injury. Not liking so hot a neighborhood, and ignorant of the 
number which might be behind, he lost no time in regaining the 
shelter of the woods, leaving the dead Indian unscalped, and the 
wounded man to the care of his friends. Scarcely had he accom¬ 
plished this, when a dozen Indians appeared upon the edge of the 
cane-brake, and seemed disposed to press on him with more vigor 
than was consistent with the safety of his present position. His 
fears, however, were instantly removed by the appearance of Boone 
and his party, who came running up as rapidly as due regard for 


GEN. SIMON KENTON. 


185 


the shelter of their persons would permit, and opening a brisk fire 
upon the Indians, quickly compelled them to regain the shelter of 
the cane-brake, with the loss of several wounded, who, as usual, 
were carried off. The dead Indian, in the hurry of the retreat, was 
abandoned, and Kenton at last had the gratification of taking his 
scalp.” 

This trip with Boone was altogether barren of results. No 
Indians were killed save the one spoken of above, nor were discov¬ 
eries of importance made. 

Upon arriving at Fort Logan, however, Kenton was immedi¬ 
ately ordered out on a reconnoitering expedition. He was given 
two heroic companions—Clark and Montgomery—with whom he 
was to visit the Little Miami River, learn the “ lay of the land,” 
plan for an attack upon the Indian village there, and return. Had 
he been content to do only what he was bidden, a very thril¬ 
ling experience and an immense amount of suffering might have 
been avoided. But after reaching their destination in safety and 
making all necessary observations, a desire seized the trio to carry 
back with them some of the very fine horses owned by the enemy. 
Accordinglv, with an unwholesome ambition and apparent reckless¬ 
ness, the covert for stock was visited, and the most valuable animals 
driven away. 

But as the way of the transgressor is always hard, neither 
their happiness nor their safety was to be augmented by their unlaw¬ 
ful possessions. It was necessary to travel very rapidly to avoid 
being captured. They therefore tied the horses together, while one 
of the men on a leader in front and the other two in the rear, with 
sharp goading, kept the cavalcade under a rapid pace. 

All night long, over swamp, hill, streams, and through tangled 
brush, did the fearless adventurers push on their way. By daylight 
a good distance had been gained. Many miles separated tliem 
from the Indian town and danger. Stopping only for a few min- 



86 


FRONTIERSMEN PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


utes to eat a lunch, the retreat was renewed and continued during 
the entire day. As the sun passed below the horizon of the west, a 
short stop was ordered. Fire was kindled, some game shot by the 
wayside, placed upon it, and the weary law-breakers, with their 
booty, enjoyed a sweet moment of rest. As soon as the horses had 
grazed sufficiently, the camp fire was destroyed, and the journey of 
another night begun. 

In traveling thus through darkness, while their pursuers slept, 
Kenton and his companions manifested energy and prudence 
worthy of the true Indian scout. By daylight, as they rode up a 
slight elevation which overlooked quite an area of country, the 
swiftly flowing waters of the Ohio were seen. With great joy at 
the prospect of soon being out of danger, they rushed on toward 
the river. 

Upon reaching the banks of the Ohio, it was discovered to be 
very rough and high. The wind, also, seemed to be rising. A 
raft was built in a few minutes, for the purpose of transporting the 
baggage, while Kenton took it upon himself to get the horses 
across. He would swim alongside of one, and the others would 
follow. Rather a dangerous undertaking, when “white caps” 
were to be seen from one shore to the other, and the current was 
swift enough to defy the most skillful swimmer. But the attempt 
was made, and failed. The horses becoming frightened, refused to 
follow their leader, and returned to the shore. Again and again did 
the heroic ranger endeavor to get them to stem the current, but 
in vain. 

It was finally resolved to await the quelling of the tempest, 
which would undoubtedly be witnessed by sunset. The perplexed 
but fearless border men built a fire, secreted their horses, lit their 
pipes, and passed the day in the woods, with a zest which none but 
hunters are capable of feeling. 

Noon came, but the wind was higher than in the morning. 


GBN. SlMOiV KENTOjY. 


87 


The afternoon sped away, and still the fury of the waves bid defi¬ 
ance to all equestrians. After consultation, it was resolved to 
remain where they were for the' night, believing that pursuit had 
been abandoned by the Indians, and that another morning’s sun 
would bring a transformation o’er the bosom of tlie river. 

As the sun peeped above the horizon in the east, Kenton and 
his companions hurriedly arose, stirred the smoldering embers, pre¬ 
pared a morsel to eat, and again wended their way to where their 
horses had been concealed. The animals were secured, haltered, 
and led to the now placid river. But experience, with them, had 
begotten fear; the waves of yesterday still dashed (in imagination) 
against the banks, and baffled their efforts to swim. The horses 
would not go. Goads were applied, coaxing indulged in, all to no 
purpose. 

Finally, completely outwitted and discouraged, the scouts con¬ 
cluded to take the horses down the river to where Louisville now 
stands, where they could be ferried across. This is what should 
have been done the day previous, as transportation could easily 
have been made before discovered by their pursuers. Now it was 
too late. The Indians were upon them, and waiting only for a 
favorable opportunity to strike the fatal blow. 

Quietly and cheerily, the party moved off down the stream. 
The birds sang gaily, the laughing waters swept on toward the 
Mississippi, warning the traveler to hasten his steps ere it was too 
late, while dreams of prosperity and happiness filled the breasts of 
the three hunters upon the bank. 

Suddenly the stillness of the morning was broken by an Indian 
war-whoop. The sound came from a short distance in the rear. 
Kenton, who was taking the lead, thinking his companions might 
be in danger, hurriedly dismounted, and walked back whence the 
yell had come. It was a rash act—characteristic of the man, how¬ 
ever. He had gone but a short distance, when three men— 


88 


JF'JiONT/EI^SMEAr, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS, 


two Indians and a white—were espied approaching him. He had 
not been discovered, and stepping behind a tree, he took deliberate 
aim, and pulled the trigger. His gun flashed in the pan! Fatal 
flash! 

Immediately his presence was discovered. With demoniac 
yells the savages dashed toward Kenton, who at length seeing the 
utter helplessness of his condition, turned and fled. Shots were 
fired at him, but the trees offered shelter, and his retreat was suc¬ 
cessful. For an hour or more he wandered hither and thither 
through the woods, not hearing a sound from his companions or 
pursuers. Just as he was winding around the head of a swamp, a 
horseman dashed out of the woods immediately in front of him, 
and demanded his surrender. Kenton remembered the poor con¬ 
dition of his gun, and offered to capitulate, provided the savage 
would treat him respectably. This, of course, “ the noble red 
man ” consented to do. The latter dismounted, came forward with 
a friendly grin, and grasped the hunter by the hand, in token of 
friendship. This Kenton resented; he would make no friends with 
such as he. In token of his desire to have the Indian keep his dis¬ 
tance, the ranger raised his rifle as though he would strike, but 
just as he did so, another savage approached from behind, caught 
the gun, and in a few minutes he was safely bound. 

Great care was taken in securing the noted scout and Indian- 
killer. Thongs, the stoutest that could be found, were brought 
into requisition. The victim was stretched upon his back; a pole 
laid diagonally from arm to foot, separated his limbs, while a stout 
cord, wound about his neck, well-nigh cut off his respiration. 

In the meanwhile, what had become of Clark and Mont¬ 
gomery? Being several hundred yards distant from their leader 
when his retreat into the woods was made, it was some time before 
his whereabouts was discovered. When they found that Kenton 
was in danger, Montgomery proposed to rescue him, but Clark 


GEN. ^JMON KENTON. 


1S9 

thought it prudent to take care of self. Accordingly, the 
latter made fast tracks for safer regions, while the brave 
Montgomery plunged alone into the woods in search of his friend. 
He discovered him just as the Indians were binding him. At the 
same moment, however, the savages noticed Montgomery getting 
ready to fire. Two of them immediately concealed themselves, 
took deliberate aim, and fired. The heroic champion of so 
many encounters fell, mortally wounded, while a yell of savage de¬ 
light echoed through the forest. Kenton knew full well what 
fate had befallen his friend, and his heart sank within him as the 
bloody scalp was brandished before his face. 

All night long did the hero of this sketch lie bound and 
bleeding upon the naked earth. Many thoughts of the old home 
back in Virginia, or of friends and associations of other days 
crowded into his troubled brain, until, tired with memories of 
brighter scenes, when the end of life seemed so near at hand, he 
slept. Painful indeed it was to lie thus, his limbs numb by reason 
of the pressure upon them, and the thong about his neck so tight 
as to almost prevent breathing, at times. 

As soon as daylight began to dawn, the savages were up, and 
breakfast was soon over. The captors feeling secure, thought to 
have a little sport at the expense of Kenton, and indulged in taunts 
and blows. 

“Ugh! You dog! You steal Indian boss, hey? You a 
squaw, no man steal hoss. Steal again, hey ? ” 

And with such expressions his tormentors plied their ramrods, 
slapped him in the face, pulled his hair, pinched his ears, scratched 
his face, and did everything possible to inflict punishment in a 
light way, as a kind of preparation for the final issue. 

About eight o’clock, after a consultation among the savages, 
the captive was placed upon a wild, impetuous colt, tied 
securely, and the animal let loose. Such sport as was then 


190 


FRON-TIERSMEiV, R/O/VEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


witnessed by the lookers on caused the most uproarious laughter. 
The colt being freed, dashed madly into the brush, the briars of 
which scratched the rider in a horrible manner. For a full half 
hour, Kenton, lashed to the animal’s back, swept over vale and 
hill, being nearly perpendicular at times, when the charger stood 
upon its hind feet, or kicked wildly in a vain endeavor to rid 
itself of its burden. 

Finally, being quite exhausted, as well as having exhausted 
his rider, the colt returned to the rest, and the march was taken up. 

The sun rose and set three successive days ere the party 
neared the village where now stands the town of Chillicothe. 
Blackfish the chief, dwelling at this village, came out alone to meet 
them. Several questions were asked the captive, to which he 
replied in a bold and fearless manner, notwithstanding the blows 
that followed. 

After the chief vented his rage upon Kenton, the party 
proceeded to the village, where men, women, and children, 
crowded around, taunting and striking the “ boss thief” in a 
most cruel manner. 

The decree went forth that he be tied to the stake. Poor 
Kenton thought his fate was to be speedily settled, and ere 
another day should bring light to the Avorld that was now en¬ 
veloped in darkness, hk charred body would be all that was left 
to tell the sad termination of this unfortunate escapade. 

For many hours the mob danced, yelled, hooted about the 
stake, but about midnight, desiring still more fiendish delight from 
their victim, the sport ceased, and Kenton was allowed a respite. 

“Early in the morning,” says a writer describing this scene, 
“he beheld the scalp of Montgomery stretched upon a hoop, and 
drying in the air before the door of one of their principal houses. 
A row of boys, women, and men, extended to the distance of a 
quarter of a mile. At the starting place stood two grim looking 


GEN. SIMON KENTON, 


I91 

warriors with butcher knives in their hands, at the extremity of 
the line was an Indian beating a drum, and a few paces beyond 
the drum was the door of the council house. Clubs, switches, hoe- 
handles, and tomahawks, were brandished along the line, causing 
the sweat to involuntarily stream from its pores, at the idea of the 
discipline which his naked skin was to receive during the race. 
The moment for starting arrived—the drum at the door of the 
council house was struck—and Kenton sprang forward to the race. 
He avoided the row of his enemies, and turning to the east, drew 
the whole party in pursuit of him. He doubled several times with 
great activity, and at length observing an opening, he darted 
through it, and pressed forward to the council house with a 
rapidity which left his pursuers far behind. One or two of the 
Indians succeeded in throwing themselves between him and the 
goal, and from these alone he received a few blows, but was much 
less injured than he could at first have supposed possible.” 




192 


FRONTIERSMEN^ PIONEERS^ AND SCOUTS 


CHAPTER IV. 

TAKEN TO WAPPATOMICA-RESOLVES TO ESCAPE-MARCH- 

FLIGHT-RECAPTURE—HIS SUFFERINGS-GIRTy’s PLEA- 

KENTON’S release-SUMMONED TO THE COUNCIL HOUSE- 

TWICE DOOMED TO THE STAKE- HIS DELIVERANCE — 

PRISONER AT DETROIT-ESCAPE—BRIGADIER-GENERAL— 

DEATH. 

After escaping with very little injury, to the council house, 
Kenton was permitted to rest until a final determination be made 
as to his fate. The council of warriors was called, and for many 
hours the discussion went on. Finally, a white renegade stepped 
up to the prisoner, and informed him that a majority had voted to 
carry him to the village of Wappatomica, where the stake awaited 
all such as he. Even this piece of news lifted a burden from 
Kenton’s heart, as the prospect of a journey was much pleasanter 
than immediate death. Who could tell but that a few of his old 
comrades from Kentucky or the forts, would be wandering around 
in that section, and effect his delivery ? What opportunities might 
not present themselves for escape.^ With a hopeful countenance 
the solitary prisoner took up the march, followed by a strong 
guard of burly warriors. He had formed the resolution never to 
enter the village of Wappatomica alive. The thought of gauntlet, 
of stake, of burning embers under his feet, of brutal inflictions such 
as only barbarians were capable of heaping upon a helpless 


GEN. SIMON KENTON. 


193 


creature, gave inspiration to the thought of dying in an attempt to 
escape, rather than suffer the death prescribed. 

It was a weary march to the already benumbed and suffering 
victim, but he endured it with stoical fortitude. No Indian should 
gloat over his cowardice. No one of those fiendish demons should 
get an idea of the intense suffering of mind and body. His only 
thought was for flight. At every halt he anxiously looked 
for a moment when his persecutors might be caught napping, but 
they considered their booty, too valuable not to “ watch without 
ceasing.” 

Finally, however, noticing a copse near by, and having been 
permitted to walk alone and unbound during the latter part of the 
journey, Kenton resolved to try his speed and skill in an endeavor 
to escape. At a moment when little attention seemed to be paid 
to him, the desperate captive gave a bound like a deer, and was into 
the patch of brush and timber in a twinkling. Incited by the 
thought of what awaited him if retaken, the heroic ranger fairly 
flew over mound, creek, and through tangled underbrush, until his 
pursuers were completely out of sight. His hopes arose as his vigor 
seemed to increase, and once more the bright chances of life filled 
his soul with delight. 

Little did poor Kenton realize when he dashed madly on from 
those behind, that he was only to run into the midst of a band of 
savage wretches coming from the village! 

It was utterly useless to attempt flight or escape from this lat¬ 
ter company. They instantly seized him, and with a rope about 
his neck the now despairing border man was marched back to the 
spot whence he had fled. No time was lost in repaying the scout 
for his attempt to escapk Switches, ramrods, knives, etc., were 
applied to his naked person, accompanied with such ejaculations as: 

“ Hoss thief run away, hey ? Steal some more ? Get back to 
pale-face squaw?” and many other taunting expressions. 


94 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


The party among whom Kenton had dashed in his effort to 
gain freedom, proved to be warriors from the village coming out to 
meet the guard and prisoner. They were now but a mile or so from 
Wappatomica and the trip to the village was soon accomplished. 
A stake was prepared, but before binding the wretched captive to 
this, he was again compelled to run the gauntlet. Not so easily 
as before did he elude those having knives, clubs, tomahawks, and 
the like. He sped like the wind by this warrior, stopped suddenly 
before that one, curved to the right, the left, and finally drew up at 
the council house bruised, bleeding, and well nigh maddened with 
intense pain. 

Then followed the council of warriors to determine the time 
and manner of his death. The prisoner was permitted to listen to 
the proceedings, although only by gesture and glance could he 
divine their meaning. 

The chiefs and others had been haranguing about an hour, 
when suddenly the crowd near the door began to separate, stillness 
settled over the assembly, and in walked Simon Girty, the notori¬ 
ous renegade white, who now occupied the position of chief, to¬ 
gether with his brother, James Girty, John Ward, and eight white 
prisoners—one woman and seven children. 

Girty’s presence immediately changed the whole tenor of 
affairs. The council regarding Kenton was at once adjourned to 
attend to this white Indian’s demands. Kenton was hustled out of 
the wigwam, and not until evening did they again order his 
return. 

And now comes the narration of a little episode in the life of 
one of the worst men nature ever blessed with the power to do 
good or evil—an episode that redeems the outlaw Girty from the 
appellation of a fiend. Nearly all of his life was so cruel, so heart¬ 
less, so bloodthirsty, as to almost drive one to the conclusion that 
not a spark of human kindness ever glowed upon the altar of his 




i 

> 


( 

195 


t 












































































196 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


heart. But the affectionate regard which he now manifested for 
his old chum and long-tried friend lifts him above the plane of total 
depravity. 

Not recognizing Kenton at first as the spy who had waded 
swamps, slept out at night, and risked life with him in Dunmore’s 
war, Girty treated him roughly. As was his custom, he plied the 
prisoner with many questions. Although a renegade from white 
society, he still loved to hear from his old friends. 

“ How many men are there in Kentucky ?” said he. 

“ It is impossible for me to answer that question,” replied Ken¬ 
ton, “ but I can tell you the number of officers and their ranks; you 
can then judge how many soldiers there are.” “Do you know 
William Stewart?” asked the renegade. “ Perfectly well—he is 
an old and intimate friend.” “What your name?” “Simon 
Butler.” “ Simon Butler!” echoed Girty. “ No^ not my old com¬ 
rade Butler! Stand up and let me see you.” 

Kenton (alias Butler) arose, reached out his hand, which Girty 
grasped with a cordiality that sent a thrill of joy through the 
doomed man’s veins. 

This proceeding completely dumbfounded the savages. Never 
before had they witnessed Girty, the white man’s implacable foe, 
extend the hand of friendship and manifest such emotion over one 
of his race. 

The desperado understood the Indian nature well enough to 
know that it would now take a superhuman effort to turn the tide 
which was about to sweep his friend into eternity. He therefore 
determined to move with greatest caution, but accomplish the re¬ 
lease of Kenton if human power could do it. 

Rising to his full height, his face betokening agitation, and his 
whole frame quivering under the emotions that were heaving to 
and fro in his breast, this peculiar man began his plea for mercy. 

Kenton afterward said that never had he witnessed such an 


GEN. SIMON KENTON. 


197 


appeal, nor listened to superior eloquence. Girty, no doubt, pos¬ 
sessed intelligence of no mean character, and this native gift, added 
to his bold, fearless manner, which always commanded admiration 
from the American red man, gave him a power that Clay or 
Webster might have envied. 

“Brothers of the Forest: You know full well my hatred 
toward my race. They have abused me and treated me like a 
dog. Their chiefs would like to see my scalp bleaching upon the 
walls of their wigwam. I hate them! I despise them! I have 
fought with you to destroy their homes, murder their infant chil¬ 
dren, and tomahawk their pale-faced squaws. Here are seven 
scalps taken by my brother and myself, in the face of death; here 
are eight prisoners we captured, and you can do with them what 
you please. Do I shrink from duty? Am I afraid of blood? Have 
I shown myself to have the heart of a squaw? No! None of 
your warriors can endure more hardship, fight fiercer battles, take 
more scalps, or send up louder war-whoops when my brothers 
charge the enemy. Never have I asked mercy for a single captive. 
I love to see them die. But here is one who has been to me as a 
brother. His unerring rifle has furnished food for my table; his 
words of wisdom have guided to many a victory; his head has lain 
beside mine, while the same blanket shielded us from the storms of 
winter. I owe my life to him. His is the only hand that I could 
grasp, and feel that I was touching the hand of one who wished 
me well. Shall I consent to his death? Is it a warrior who for¬ 
gets his friends? Would one of your natural chiefs stand by and 
see his dearest friend burned at the stake; witness the smoke from 
his body ascend to the Great Spirit, and never intercede in his be¬ 
half? Have I not a heart, as well as your chiefs? Oh! my 
brothers, if you knew how his suffering would go to my heart, 
like the keen point of a knife, you would release him from these 
bonds, bind up his .wounds, and adopt him as a brother. Take 


198 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


these other whites, and do with them as you please. Burn them, 
scalp them, tear their vitals out, and throw their carcasses to the 
buzzard, but do not pain and disgrace me, by killing the only 
white friend I have on earth.” 

This speech joroduced. a profound impression. Old men 
grunted approval, warriors softened in their expression of hatred, 
and for a little while it seemed that the battle was won— 
Kenton would be saved. But after a slight reflection, the intense 
desire for revenge again took possession of some, and a warm 
debate ensued. When it appeared that the opposition were about 
to carry their point, Girty once more arose, stood gazing intently 
for a time, then burst forth in another storm of eloquence, which 
carried the day. A vote was immediately taken, when only one- 
fourth of all present struck their clubs upon the floor, in token 
of death. 

Right joyfully did the renegade white untie the fetters that 
bound his friend, and together they walked out of the council 
chamber to Girty’s wigwam. 

This deli\'erance, so unexpected, increased the attachment felt 
by the two rough border men for each other, and never afterward 
was it lessened. 

For several weeks Kenton remained at the village of Wappa- 
tomica, resting from his fatigue, enjoying the friendship of every¬ 
body, and caring not to renew his journey homeward. But it was 
literally “dangerous to be safe” among such treacherous com¬ 
panions. The least mistake on the part of a white might arouse 
suspicion. However, with the strong influence of his friend with 
him, there was little cause for alarm, he thought. 

One day, while the two were out walking, an Indian was 
seen approaching from tlie council house, uttering the cry of 
distress. Girty immediately stopped, inquired the meaning, and 
was informed that he was wanted at the assembly. Kenton at 



GEN. SIMON KENTON. 


199 


once suspected all was not right, but his friend assured him that he 
would not be harmed. The two therefore repaired to the council 
chamber, only to find hostility manifested on every side toward 
Kenton. The poor fellow, after offering his hand in friendship 
to a half dozen warriors only to be indignantly rejected by each 
one, took a seat by himself, brooding over the meaning of such a 
transformation. 

Girty demanded to know the cause—what the answer was we 
are not informed, but after a spirited discussion, participated in by 
nearly all present, the captive stranger was a second time doomed 
to the stake. 

The order was that he should be taken to another village for 
execution. Girty was probably at the bottom of this scheme, as he 
hoped by delay to procure Kenton’s liberty. The next day the 
party, with their prisoner, set off on their journey. After several 
days’ travel, they drew up at the village where lived the famous 
Mingo chief, Logan. This noble specimen of savage humanity 
immediately came forward, and greeted the captive in the most 
cordial manner. 

“Well, young man,” said the humane chief, “ these warriors 
seem very mad at you ? ” 

“Yes, they certainly are,” replied Kenton. 

“Well, don’t be discouraged, I am a great chief; you are to go 
to Sandusky. They speak of burning you there, but I will send two 
runners to-morrow to speak good for you.” 

This little conversation greatly raised the drooping spirits of 
the doomed man. Well he knew that what Logan said he would 
do would be done, and if any chief could secure his liberty, 
certainly the great Mingo could. 

Before departing for Sandusky, however, the two runners 
whom Logan had sent ahead to plead for mercy, returned, and by 
the expression of disappointment on the chiers brow, Kenton 


200 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


concluded that his intercession had been unavailing. Just how true 
this conclusion was has never been discovered, but it is altogether 
likely that it was through Logan’s intercession that the captive 
was finally released. 

The journey to Sandusky was not a long one, yet one of great 
sadness to our hero. It seemed that surely now every ray of hope 
had vanished. The gauntlet and the stake awaited their victim. 
Life was fieeting, and with it all the many beautiful fancies that 
the human mind loves to entertain. Visions of success, of victory, 
of heroism, of renown, had swept across the hunter’s mind in other 
days, but these now must be obliterated forever. 

As he neared the fatal spot, where were assembled those who 
held the balance of his life in their hands, an old Indian, seated by 
the wayside, suddenly grasped his tomahawk, rushed at the help¬ 
less prisoner, and with a fiendishness scarcely equaled by the 
demons of perdition, sent the murderous weapon crashing through 
Kenton’s shoulder. So powerful was the blow that flesh and bone 
gave way, the entire arm almost being severed from the body. A 
less vigorous frame than Kenton’s could scarcely have withstood 
such a wound, coupled as it was with sufferings beyond descrip¬ 
tion. But without the least attention for twenty-four hours, and 
very poor care after that, this vigorous organism held its own, 
and kept above ground. 

With his shoulder paining him until he was well-nigh beside 
himself, Kenton was once more compelled to run the gauntlet. 
Several times he was struck; as often he rallied his fast-diminishino- 
energy, and finally reached the goal of comparative safety. 

Here he was told that the stake was ready—his last hour on 
earth had come. He sank dejected upon the soil, and sent up a 
prayer to Heaven, that he might speedily be taken beyond the 
reach of such fiends as surrounded him, and be at rest in a land not 
acquainted with grief or suffering. He was then driven from the 


GEN. SIMVN KENTON. 


201 


council house toward the whooping, yelling mob awaiting the 
application of the torch. 

But suddenly the crowd is startled by seeing a horseman 
coming toward them at full gallop. He spurs his steed on to 
greater exertions as he views the preparations going on for the 
final act in the terrible drama. He now draws rein at the council 
house, and, throwing the bridle over a pole, hurries to the great 
chief of the chamber. The new-comer is a white, clad in British 
uniform, and carries papers praying for the release of the prisoner. 
The chiefs assemble around him, the festivities are checked, and an 
angry discussion ensues. Drewer, for that proved to be the 
officer’s name, had come direct from Detroit, with orders to bring 
Kenton back with him if possible, that information of an important 
character might be gleaned respecting Kentucky and Western 
outposts in general. 

The Indians were at first immovable; their appetites had been 
whetted up to the highest pitch, and to see their game suddenly 
snatched from roasting, could scarcely be endured. But Drewer 
was persistent. He represented mighty results following Kenton’s 
disclosures, great victories for the British as well as for the red man; 
many scalps as falling into their hands, and all the Western border 
once more under Indian sway. 

Finally, with many a grunt of disapproval, the officer was 
permitted to take the captive, with the express understanding that 
he was to be returned as soon as the desired information was given. 

What joy filled the heart of the poor ranger when he saw his 
white deliverer coming toward him with a smiling countenance, 
bidding him mount a pony and go with him. 

We are not informed just who was instrumental in bringing 
about this release, but certainly either Kenton or Logan, or 
perhaps both, can be credited with it. In either case, it was a 
godsend to the unfortunate scout, who for three weeks had under- 



203 


FROIVTIERSMEN, PrONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


gone tortures, run the gauntlet, and twice been on the point of 
burning. 

Kenton and his new found friend proceeded to Detroit, where, 
with much kindness, lie was kept as a prisoner of war from 
September, ’7S, to June, ’79. 

About the latter datejn company witli two other Kentuckians, 
he made his escape, and finally, after a march of thirty days, rested 
among friends at Louisville. 

The subsequent career of this noted border man and scout, is 
filled with thrilling experiences, but space will not joermit their 
mention in detail. He was immediately taken into the American 
service, where, principally under Boone, he did valiant service as 
^ spy, scout, and soldier. After the Revolution, having moved to 
Ohio, he was made a brigadier-general in the Ohio militia. He 
had occasion to serve in the field a few times after his appointment, 
always manifesting a love for his country and a heroism in tlie 
defence of freedom, that will cause a fragrant odor ever to liovcr 
about his name. 

For man}'’ years before his death, he lived not only a patriotic 
but a well-ordered Christian life, being a zealous member of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church, and laying up treasures in the other 
world, as well as leaving a fragrant memory to posterity. 

At the advanced age of eighty-one, in the year 1836, Gen. 
Simon Kenton breathed his last, surrounded by many mourning 
friends, revered by all who owed their lives and prosperity to such 
pioneer characters as he, and beloved by every one who knew him. 




i 








DEER HUNTING IN THE NORTHWEST. 










































































































































LIFE OF GEN. GEORGE R. CLARK. 


CHAPTER I. 

I.»TERARY TASTES-STUDIES SURVEYING-SEEKS FAME-AU- 

LURED TO KENTUCKY-FOUNDER OF GOVERNMENT-CO¬ 
OPERATION OF VIRGINIA-EMINENCE AS A LEADER—PEER 

OF WASHINGTON-CAPTURE OF BRITISH STRONGHOLD AT 

KASKASKIA-CATHOLIC DEVOTIONS. 

George Roger Clark was born in Albemarle county, Va., in 
the year 1752. Of his parentage we know but little. Indeed, it is 
not necessary in this country to be in possession of a complete his¬ 
tory of one’s ancestry, in order to apppreciate their talents. America 
asks not the question, “ Who was your father.^” but “ Who are 
you?” The man or woman of meanest parentage may rise to fill 
the highest niches in the wall of our empire. So, in considering 
the subject of this sketch, we take his life for what it is worth, and 
leave others more interested in that portion of his biography, to hunt 
up the previous Clarks. 

George was a precocious youth. Instead of devoting his entire 
time to hunting and trapping, as did most of the young men in 
his day, he aspired to something higher. Every book that could 
be secured was read. Every month of school held in his district 

205 




2 o 6 frontiersmen, pioneers, and SCO errs. 

was taken advantage of. He learned rapidly, and applied himselt 
assiduously. 

After reaching the age of twenty, he concluded to leave his 
quiet home in the woods, and, like Washington, Jefferson, and 
several others, slightly his seniors, of whom he had heard, study 
the science of surveying. 

This branch of learning he pursued with considerable delight, 
completed the course, and labored for awhile in the field. 

But his disposition was such that he could not live without ex¬ 
citement. He longed for fame—for some opportunity to make a 
name. He therefore concluded to visit the frontier—Kentucky. 
Many wild stories were afloat as to the dangers, the wealth, the re¬ 
wards of that far-off land. It would be the place for a leader to go. 
A State would soon be formed, and men like himself would form it. 

He spent some time m Dunmore’s war and, just previous to 
the breaking out of tne devolution, he set sail for Kentucky. An 
interesting account of his appearance in this new land of many 
wonders, is pleasantly described by Gen. Ray: 

“ I had come to where I now live,” says Ray (about four 
miles from Harrodsburg), “to turn some horses into the range. I had 
killed a small blue-wing duck, that was feeding in our spring, and 
had roasted it nicely on the brow of the hill near the house. After 
having taken it off to cool, I was much surprised on being suddenly 
accosted by a fine, soldierly-looking man, who exclaimed: ‘ How 
do you do, my little fellow? What’s your name? Ain’t you afraid 
of being in the woods by yourself ? ’ On satisfying his inquiries, I 
invited the traveler to partake of my duck, which he did, without 
leaving me a bone to pick, his appetite was so keen. ‘And now, my 
friend, what may be your name, and what has brought you to these 
parts? ’ said I. ‘ My name is Clark,’ he answered, ‘ and I have come 
out to see what you brave fellows are doing in Kentucky, and to 
lend you a helping hand, if necessar3%’ ” 


GEN. GEORGE R. CLARK, 


207 


He soon found opportunity to lend the “ helping hand.” Ken¬ 
tucky was in need of just such a man as Clark. She had plenty of 
brave hearts and ready hands to defend her citizens against the red 
man, when acting alone, but the hour was approaching when 
English skill and strategy were to be added to that of the savage, 
for reducing her borders. The Revolution, that had now broken 
upon the States of the East, was also to be felt in the far West. 
There were forts to be built, and others to be captured. An army 
of the West must be raised, to co-operate with Washington and the 
other Generals along the Atlantic. Nearly everything depended 
upon the alliance of the Indians. If the Americans could secure 
the assistance of the most powerful tribes, or at least prevent their 
joining forces with the British, almost half the battle was won. 

Gen. Clark fully understood this fact, and believing himself 
capable of so great a task, when impelled by the double incentive 
of ambition and patriotism, he set himself toward bringing about 
these desired results. 

The first thing necessary was to have Kentucky recognized, 
either as a State, or part of one, and then to receive commissions of 
warfare from the general government. 

Gen. Clark therefore sent word throughout the Territory 
that there would be held, upon a certain date, in Harrodsburg, a 
mass convention of all citizens, for the purpose of organization and 
united co-operation. As far as can be ascertained, he was the first 
and almost sole mover of this project. This being true, the great 
State of Kentucky must to-day look upon George Roger Clark as 
the founder of her government. Not an unenviable position, 
indeed. 

The convention was held. Flaming speeches were made by 
Clark, Jones, and others, and temporary organization effected. 
The two gentlemen just named were commissioned to visit the 
capital of Virginia, and pray for recognition as annexed territory. 


2o8 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


Of course, such recognition would entitle Kentucky to all 
assistance in the way of ammunition, men, provisions, and so forth, 
which the other portion of the State enjoyed. 

The delegates immediately set out on horseback, for their long 
journey. Upon reaching the seat of government, it was ascertained 
that the legislature was not in session. Gov. Henry was at 
the State mansion, however, and to him the weary Westerners 
turned their steps. 

Gov. Henry immediately called the council together, to 
consider the case. They concluded that, as the Legislature had 
never recognized Kentucky as a part of her territory, or her citizens 
as subjects of the Virginia commonwealth, it would be impossible 
to give ammunition to her delegates, but if they chose to accept it 
as a loan, well and good. The two delegates were to be held 
personally responsible for it. 

To this Clark would by no means accede. Said he; 

“ Gentlemen, a country which is not worth defending, is not 
worth claiming. The British agents are striving with all their 
power to incite the reds against the Kentucky border. Already 
depredations have been committed. We 7nust have defense. If 
you refuse to supply us with some of the necessary provisions of 
warfare, it will become our duty to raise an army of our own, fight 
our own battles, and enjoy the rewards of our labors.” 

The council perceived the loss they would sustain by permit¬ 
ting this rich Western country to be separated from their own State, 
and reconsidered their action. It was then decided to grant the 
wishes of the delegates. Ammunition was at once ordered to be 
shipped to Pittsburgh, where Clark could take possession of it, and 
distribute it as he saw fit. 

Accordingly, the two Kentuckians secured a boat and seven 
boatmen, and started with their powder and lead to Limestone, Ky. 
It was a dangerous trip at that time, especially as the Indians 



GEN. GEORGE R. CLARK. 


209 


seemed to have information concerning their cargo. Many 
a time did they have to fight gallantly, as they floated down the 
Ohio. But their destination was finally reached, and the ammunition 
stowed away in the earth, where it was procured from time to time, 
as needed. 

In the Western warfare with the Indians, men left their homes 
and families, assembled at some specified point, elected a “ leader,” 
and began their work against the savage. No badge or written 
commission was necessary, in order to distinguish the commander 
of these parties from the private. His bravery, his skill, his in¬ 
genuity, his muscular power, and his ability to command, were suf¬ 
ficient evidence of office. And among such men as could emigrate 
to the wilds of this region, he who thus manifested such superior 
characteristics as to mark him chief, must indeed be well worthy of 
his place. 

The subject of this sketch at once became the uppermost 
Indian-fighter of Kentucky. Not that others did not engage with 
him who were equally brave, but none who combined so well the 
highest mental as well as physical powers. His insight into affairs 
was keen and piercing. His horizon stretched much beyond the 
ordinary vision. Not one spot, not a single neighborhood, not 
even a single Territory did he seek to save, but his mind was con¬ 
stantly employed in completing schemes by which the entire West 
might be won from British rule and savage barbarity, to the 
dominion of his own loved country and her peaceful inhabitants. 

He donned the rough garb of the ranger, and fought many a 
desperate hand-to-hand battle, until he won an eminent place in 
the hearts of all Kentuckians. But, with the aforementioned ideas 
in his head, he conceived a plan for crushing English tyranny, by 
capturing their three great strongholds in the West, viz,, Detroit, 
Kaskaskia, and Vincennes. 

It was a bold thought, worthy of Napoleon himself. In fact, 
H 

/ 


210 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


as we study the life of this marvelous young man—for at this time, 
1778, he was only about twenty-five years of age—qualities are 
visible scarcely second to many of the world’s greatest heroes. It 
would hardly be improper to characterize him as the Hannibal of 
the West. In the government of men, he was nearly equal to 
Napoleon; he could endure hardships, and inspire his followers as 
could Julius Caesar; he conceived campaigns almost as extensive 
as Alexander, and would fight with the tenacity of Grant. 

Our nation has not fully appreciated the eminent services of 
Geo. Roger Clark. His name should be placed alongside of those 
who have been immortalized as Washington’s staff. Yes, for in 
point of ability, he was almost the peer of that great chief himself. 
His wonderful marches against the forts of Vincennes, cf Kas- 
kaskia, of Cahokia and elsewhere, are feats worthy to be embodied 
in the songs of our poets, and of eloquent recital by the nation’s 
greatest statesmen. 

But we will proceed to relate the steps taken for the reduction 
of Kaskaskia and Vincennes. 

Clark knew that the British at these points were inspiring the 
Indian in his warfare against the Americans; that if these strong¬ 
holds could be possessed by the Americans, perhaps the face of 
affairs would be entirely reversed. He therefore sent a scouting 
party to these forts, to find out their strength, and the possibilities 
of capture. The party returned with the report that the English 
were resting in unmolested security; that much negligence was 
manifested in guarding the forts, but that the Indians were almost 
universally laboring under instructions from the English, and 
ready to fight at a moment’s warning. 

Gen. Clark at once set out for Virginia after soldiers, ammu¬ 
nition, and money. He appeared before the Legislature, stated his 
plans for reducing the forts, and solicited the necessary aid. To a 
man of less ability the grave assembly would have turned a deaf 



GEN. GEORGE R. CLARK. 


211 


ear, but to him they granted what was asked. About $5,000, 
boats, arms, ammunition, and four companies of soldiers were 
placed at his disposal. 

In a short time the brave commander and his meager force 
were safely landed at the present site of Louisville, where they 
made full preparations for the hazardous undertaking. 

Finally, everything being ready, the party dropped down the 
Ohio, to a place where stood old Fort Massac. Here they con¬ 
cealed their boats, and started on their dangerous and wearisome 
march. They had learned from individuals recently from Kas- 
kaskia, the condition of affairs there, and that the utmost caution 
must be practiced, to avoid being discovered by spies. Perhaps 
their reason for getting so near the western edge of Illinois (they 
having left their boats about fifty miles from the mouth of the 
Ohio) was to avoid any scouting parties from Vincennes. Clark 
determined to make sure work of this trip, though it cost many a 
weary march and severe hardship. 

Through swamp, and thicket, and muddy stream, this noble 
band of freedom’s sons took their way. In summer time. Southern 
Illinois is never healthy, and especially was this true at the season 
when Clark marched to Kaskaskia. Their sacrifices were beyond 
description. Bad water, fever, ague, no game, scanty pro¬ 
visions, all combined to render the experiences almost unendurable. 
With a less inspiring leader, the four hundred men would undoubt¬ 
edly have grown mutinous. But on they went, successfully con¬ 
tending with straggling bands of savages, from time to time. 

Three weeks were they thus plodding over morass and 
through the thick and almost impenetrable woods, and at last the 
journey was completed. Not waiting for even a rest, Clark 
decided upon an attack that night. 

He learned from his scouts that there were about five hundred 
French inhabitants in the town, and that the fort itself was guarded 


212 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


by only a few Englishmen, the commander of whom was 
Rocheblave. 

It was determined to secretly enter the place from two direc¬ 
tions, demand neutrality from the inhabitants, and capture the 
garrison. Accordi-ngly, at the dead hour of night, from each end 
of the principal street, came the sound of hurrying footsteps, and 
before the alarm was fairly given, the town was filled with the 
much talked of “ Long Knives ” from Virginia. A panic would 
have ensued, had not the officers demanded that every inhabitant 
keep his house while the fort was being subjugated. 

Clark marched straight up to the oddly shaped building 
containing the British, broke through the doors, and took prisoners 
of war all who could be found, including Rocheblave himself. 

Not a drop of blood had been shed, and yet the principal 
stronghold of the English in the West had been secured. That 
night and the next day, the careworn but brave-hearted Americans 
had a respite from their labors, and feasted upon some of the 
luxuries supplied by His Majesty, King George. 

And now comes the manifestation of a governing power, 
possessed by none other in a higher degree than by George Roger 
Clark. 

The French inhabitants had been told wondrous stories con¬ 
cerning the “Long Knives” of the States. How one could chase 
a dozen ordinary men; of their thirst for human gore, and their 
unequaled dexterity with the far-famed scalping knife. Of course, 
their fright knew no bounds, when they found* themselves in the 
power of such characters. 

Clark determined not to lose his power over them, but to 
convince the Frenchmen of his superiority, as a man, to their 
English commander. 

He therefore resorted, first to severity. Several of the leading 
citizens were caught and locked in the guard house without cause. 



213 


a western river. 











































































































































































































































































































































214 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS 

Clark himself forcibly took possession of the wealthiest citizen’s 
house, making it his headquarters. Vigorous orders were given 
for the apprehension of different individuals for the most trivial 
causes. Five davs did these trembling creatures suffer under the 
severe treatment of the Americans. 

Finally, M. Gibault, their priest, secured a conference with 
Clark, and requested that, as the inhabitants would perhaps soon 
be hurled into eternity, or carried away captive, that they might 
have the privilege of meeting once more in the old church edifice 
for worship. 

Of course Clark granted the request, desiring as soon as 
possible to convince them of his regard for sacred things as well as 
his ability to punish the innocent. 

The assembling of this little band of primitive Catholics, and 
what took place, is so beautifully described by Charles McKnight, 
in a work of which he is the author, that we will let him tell 
it here : 

“ The whole population now assembled in their church, 
mournfully chanted their prayers, and tearfully bade each other 
farewell. The priest and deputation then returned to Clark’s 
lodgings and thanked him for the favor granted. They were 
willing to submit to the loss of their property as the fate of war, 
but begged they might not be separated from their families, and 
that enough clothes and provisions might be allowed, sufficient at 
least, for their necessities. 

“ Clark, seeing that their fears had been raised to the pitch 
required, thus abruptly addressed them : 

“ ‘ Who do you take me to he? Do you think we are savages, 
and that we intend to massacre you all ? Do you think Americans 
will strip women and children, and take the very bread out oi 
their mouths? My countrymen never make war upon the inno¬ 
cent. ft was to protect our own wives and children that we 



GEN. GEORGE R. CLARK. 


215 


penetrated into this wilderness, to subdue these British posts, 
whence the savages are supplied with arms and ammunition to 
murder us. We do not war against Frenchmen. The King of 
France, your former master, is now our ally. His ships and 
soldiers are now fighting for the Americans. The French are our 
firm (rieiids. Go and enjoy your religion, and worship when and 
where you please. Retain your property, and please inform all 
your citizens for me, that they must dismiss all alarm, and conduct 
themselves as usual. We are your friends instead of enemies, and 
came to deliver you from the British.’ 

“ The complete reaction of feeling occasioned by this timely 
and politic speech may be imagined. The deputation could scarce 
believe their own ears. The joyful news soon spread; the bells 
rang a merry peal; the streets were decorated with flowers and 
banners; the people again assembled in the church and sang a 
Te Deufn.^ and the most uproarious joy prevailed throughout the 
whole night. All now cheerfully acknowledged Col. Clark as 
commandant of the country, and several Kaskaskia gentlemen 
even accompanied Major Bowman’s detachment—who were all 
mounted on French ponies — to surprise the post of Cahokia 
(opposite the city of St. Louis). The plan was entirely successful, 
and the post was secured without a wound, or a drop of blood.” 







2 i 6 


frontiersmen, pioneers, and scouts. 


CHAPTER II. 

VINCENNES SURRENDERS-ESCAPES KIDNAPPING-GRAND COUN¬ 
CIL CALLED-FAMOUS SPEECH-INDIANS OFFER TWO OF 

THEIR TRIBE AS AN ATONEMENT-SUBMIT THEMSELVES A 

WILLING SACRIFICE-MADE CHIEFS-RECONCILIATION- 

PIPE OF PEACE. 

It was in the latter part of July, ’78, that Clark and his little 
band of noble volunteers took the British post of Kaskaskia. 
Although, at this season of the year, in the uncivilized condition of 
Illinois at that time, marches were attended with sickness and 
many hardships, yet Gen. Clark had been sent out to reduce all 
the English strongholds, if possible, and this he determined to lose 
no time in doing. Parties were sent in different directions, wher¬ 
ever he could hear of a trading post or miniature fort. In every 
instance, these squads of heroic Americans were successful. It was 
not long before every minor post in Illinois had fallen from British 
grasp. But Vincennes still was in possession of the foe. This 
garrison, Clark had been informed, was strongly fortified, and 
would require strategy as well as bravery to reduce it. Ever fertile 
in expedients, however, after making fast friends of the Kaskaskia 
priest, M. Gibault, and other influential Frenchmen, Clark per¬ 
suaded them to visit Vincennes and induce the French inhabitants 
to become adherents to the stars and stripes. The priest and his 
friends, therefore, hurried off to the Southern fort, and accomplished 


GEN, GEORGE R. CLARK. 


217 


their mission without the least trouble. They found the commander 
absent, suspecting no danger, and having called a meeting of all 
the people, a statement of the case was made. The Vincennes 
Frenchmen were informed of the friendly relations existing between 
their native country and America; of the interest Lafayette and 
others had displayed in behalf of liberty, and that both countries 
undoubtedly would soon be fighting their common enemy. 

This had the desired effect. Their love for English rule was 
by no means intense, so they marched over to the block house, or 
fort, demanded entrance, turned out the limited guard, and took pos¬ 
session in the name of the colonies of America. 

These were remarkable victories. Here was almost the entire 
West suddenly brought into the power of the American government 
without a shot being fired, or a man killed. 

Among the various trading points that fell into the hands of the 
new-comers was Cahokia. Here Clark took up his headquarters 
for a season, and invited the various Indian tribes around to come 
in for a conference. Most of his soldiers in the meantime had 
abandoned the service, money having become a scarce article, and 
Clark took upon himself the responsibility of commissioning 
Frenchmen to guard the forts and help subdue the Indians. Let¬ 
ters and verbal messages were sent by him to every chief of whom 
he could hear, telling them the change that had swept over affairs, 
and that the “ Big Knives ” desired peace. It was in his dealings 
with the treacherous red men of the forest that the intrepid com¬ 
mander showed his illustrious ability, as well as at the head of a 
regiment. 

He had no simpering manners nor faltering utterances for 
them. Did any tribe or wandering party commit a depredation, he 
punished them to the full extent of his power. He told them that 
the Americans were anxious to fight—eager to get their scalps; 
that they could remain with the British if they chose, but they 


2 I 8 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


must expect to fight, and fight like men. Comparisons were made 
between the English and Americans; one-sided stories, greatly ex¬ 
aggerated no doubt, were told regarding the cause of the war, until 
the wily savage, ever admiring bravery, aud yet ready to be found 
upon the stronger side, began to relinquish his adherence to England, 
and sue for peace. Warriors and chiefs from all parts of the great 
West came flocking into Cahokia. Clark had hardly expected so 
many, and was ill prepared to defend himself, should there be an 
attack. But not an intimation escaped him that any forebodings 
were in his heart. Ottawas, Chippewas, Sacs, Foxes, and many 
other tribes were represented, until the town and adjoining country 
were perfectly alive with dusky faces. 

They all wanted to see the Great Long Knife. Clark treated 
them with disdain for the most part, always ready, however, to 
manifest friendliness where it would subserve his purpose. 

One night, when the camp-fires were low, and everything 
quiet, a company “ of the red devils,” as he terms them, forced 
their way up to his lodgings and endeavored to carry him off. 
Just what they wanted to do with him is not known. They after¬ 
ward affirmed that no harm was intended. The guard, however, 
with Clark’s assistance, made every one of the kidnappers prison¬ 
ers, and they were thrown into irons. Nor did he stop here. The 
Meadow chiefs, to whose tribe the kidnapping party belonged, were 
arrested and confined. 

Such boldness staitled tlie savages; even the French inhabi¬ 
tants feared lest it might bring sudden destruction upon all the 
whites. But the daring leader was unwavering. Every one sup¬ 
posed to be connected in any way with the plot, was quickly 
secured and subjected to the severest military discipline. This in 
the face of 2^erhaps a thousand bloodthirsty scalp-hunters, was an 
act without parallel. 

The chiefs jDleaded for their incarcerated fellows. Reasons were 


GEN. GEORGE R. CLARK. 


219 


given, presents offered, and fair promises made for their freedom, 
but all in vain. He called them all villains, and unworthy any 
warrior’s confidence. He ordered the French inhabitants to arms, 
which greatly frightened the savages. He even went so far as to 
remove his lodgings to a distance from the block house, and lived 
apparently without any guard. He however, kept fifty men con¬ 
cealed about him. 

Having convinced all parties that he feared nothing and dared 
to do anything, Clark called a grand council. Representatives from 
every tribe were invited, and of course gladly attended. The pris¬ 
oners were released in order that they might be present at the 
council. 

“After the pompous ceremonies were over,” says a recent 
writer on this subject, “ Clark promptly produced a bloody or war 
belt of wampum, and made them a plain, strong, and uncommonly 
bold and effective speech, in which he told them that he knew tliey 
were on the British side; that he did not blame them for it,but 
wished them to fight like brave men; that he scorned to take any 
mean advantage of the British by asking any of their allies to desert 
them; that there were none but Americans who would not have 
put them to death for their recent behavior; but that he did not 
care foi* them, and they were at perfect liberty to do what they 
pleased, and go where they pleased, but they must behave like 
men; that he would have them escorted out of the village, and 
that they should not do any mischief for three days; after that he 
would fight them. If they did not wish all of their women and 
children to be massacred, they must immediately leave off killing 
those of the whites; that there was the war belt to take or leave, 
as they pleased, and it would soon be seen which party would make 
it the most bloody.” 

The effect of this speech can scarcely be realized. Where 
hostility toward Clark and the Americans had been paramount. 


220 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


respect and veneration were substituted. The old chiefs looked at 
each other and grunted significantly, as the brave commander went 
on. Then, when he had finished, several chieftains arose and 
offered their allegiance to the American flag. They pleaded for 
mercy. They begged that their squaws and pappooses might not 
be sacrificed. They desired to take Clark by the hand and call him 
brother. Clark then said: 

“ I am instructed by the great men among the ‘ Long Knives ’ 
not to ask peace from any people, but to offer them peace or war; 
since the British can no longer fight the ‘ Big Knives,’ their 3^oung 
warriors will grow into squaws unless they can find some one else 
to fight. 

“ Here are two belts; the red one means war, the white one 
peace; choose which you will. I will not treat with those chiefs 
who tried to carry me off. I will have nothing to do with them. 
They are cowards. Neither will I smoke the pipe with them.” 

Clark says, in his journal, that after this fiery speech, he was 
pleased to see them all sit, trembling, as persons frightened at the 
apprehension of the worst fate. “ When they had tried their elo¬ 
quence again, to no purpose,” says he, “ they chose two young men 
to be put to death, as an atonement for the rest, hoping that would 
pacify me. It would have amazed you to have seen how' submis¬ 
sively those two young men presented themselves for death, 
advancing into the middle of the floor, sitting down by each other 
and covering their heads with their blankets, to receive the toma¬ 
hawk. Peace was what I wanted with them, if I could get it on 
my own terms, but this stroke prejudiced me in their favor, and 
for a few moments I was so agitated that I don’t doubt that I 
should, without reflection, have killed the first man who would 
have offered to hurt them.” 

Silently awaiting the fatal moment when the tomahawk should 
descend, the young warriors sat with covered heads. No one in 


GEN. GEORGE R. CLARK. 


231 


the large crovva moved a limh. Every heart was hushed, every 
eye was steadfastly fixed upon the American commander, to see 
what course he would now pursue. It was a trying moment—a 
scene never to be forgotten. There stood the impervious Clark, 
his eye flashing fire, his whole frame agitated under the excitement 
of the hour, bidding defiance to a thousand human beings. 

“I am glad to find.” said he. hotly, “that there are men 
among all nations. With you,” turning to the two, “ with you, 
who alone are fit to be chiefs of your tribe, I am willing to treat. 
Through you I am willing to grant peace to your brothers; I take 
you by the hand as chiefs, worthy of being such.” 

He then smoked the pipe of peace with all the chiefs present, 
excepting those of the Meadow Indians, the two braves who had 
offered their lives as a reconciliation representing their tribe. 

No such incident as this, we believe, can be found in all the 
annals of Indian warfare. The fame of it went abroad throughout 
the West, Northwest, and other portions of the country, awing into 
fear and reverence the savage foe, and immortalizing the name of 
Clark among the whites. 





232 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS 


CHAPTER III. 

THE BRITISH GOVERNOR, HAMILTON, BEFORE VINCENNES-VAN¬ 
QUISHED-CLARK FEARS CAPTURE-MARCHES MEN TO CON¬ 
QUER THE ENEMY-TERRIBLE HARDSHIPS-UNPARALLELED 

HEROISM-THE FOE IN VIEW—SUCCESSFUL STRATEGY- 

VINCENNES SURRENDERS-BRIGADIER GENERAL. 

Word had reached the Kentucky hero, in his quarters at Kas- 
kaskia, that Gen. McIntosh was marching against Detroit witn a 
laroe force. This was welcome news to the isolated commander. 

o 

He feared, unless Detroit was reduced, that means would again be 
employed to reinstate the British, not only in the forts, but in the 
hearts of the great tribes of Indians. So, when it was understood 
that McIntosh would soon be in possession of the only and 
strongest English post of this region, no alarm was felt for thf* 
future. 

Resting thus “ on his oars,” waiting for developments and 
orders, Clark was little prepared to receive the news that 
McIntosh had entirely and ignominiously abandoned the project. 
Nor was that all. His scouts brought in the tidings that Gov. 
Henry Hamilton, of Detroit, with a large force—at least six hun¬ 
dred men—was marching toward Kaskaskia. This threw conster¬ 
nation into camjD. Several small detachments of Americans and 
Frenchmen were away. Bowman having the principal squad at 
Cahokia. These were immediately ordered to Kaskaskia, and 


GEN, GEORGE R. CLARK. 


223 


fortifications were at once begun. No time or labor was spared to 
make the diminutive fort as formidable as possible. Finally, ar¬ 
rangements for receiving His Excellency, the Governor, were 
complete, but he did not come. Instead, a Spanish merchant 
came up from Vincennes, and reported Hamilton as in pos¬ 
session of that post. Startling, indeed, was this. The merchant 
said that the English were inciting the savages to bloodshed, and 
parties were going out in all directions. McKnight says: “ Henry 
Hamilton, the British Governor of Detroit, assembled a large force, 
and appeared before Vincennes, Dec. 15, 1778. The French 
people made no effort to defend the place. The gallant Capt. 
Helm and a Mr. Henry were the only Americans in the fort. 
The latter had a cannon, well charged, placed in the open gate¬ 
way, while the commandant. Helm, stood by it with a lighted 
match. When the British Governor, Hamilton, approached with 
his troops within hailing distance. Helm cried out, with a stento¬ 
rian voice, ‘ Halt! ’ This show of resistance caused the doughty 
English officer to stop, and demand a surrender of the garrison. 
Helm exclaimed: ‘No man shall enter here until I know the 
terms.’ Hamilton responded, ‘ You shall have all the honors of 
war.’ And so the fort was duly given up, its one officer and one 
private receiving the customary marks of respect for their brave 
defense.” 

It was Jan. 31, 1779, when the news reached Clark. Most 
men would have beat a retreat, or at least given up all hope. In¬ 
dians, by the thousand, were all about him. These might, and 
probably would, be his enemies within six months, unless some¬ 
thing was done. Six hundred well-disciplined English troops were 
less than two hundred miles off, read}', as he supposed, to march 
against his little garrison. All these perils stared him in th.; face, 
and urged him to immediate action. He imagined Hamilton before 
Kaskaskia; saw his superior force, and hundreds of savage fol- 


224 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

lowers. He beheld all his labor, all he had so bravely won, all his 
loved possessions in this important region, suddenly swept away, 
nevermore to be wrenched from the tyrant’s hand. The vision 
nerved his heart, and he said, “ It shall not be. Instead of Ham¬ 
ilton capturing me. I’ll capture Hamilton.” And he did; but the 
story of that fearful march, of that marvelous triumph, is sufficient 
to fill a volume of itself. 

Vincennes is about one hundred and seventy miles from 
Kaskaskia. Even at the present day the journey would be a 
difficult one, on account of the streams, swamps, and marshy soil. 
At the time when Gen. George Roger Clark determined to fight 
the British lion at Vincennes, the route was all but impassable. 
Great floods had swept over the country. Rivers were overflowing 
their banks; small streams had become large ones; creeks were 
formed, never before in existence, and malaria spread direful 
effects throughout the entire region, yet Clark said, “ We’ll go.” 

One hundred and thirty brave hearts were found, ready to do 
and die with their Napoleonic leader. Forty-six were sent over to 
the Mississippi, to there take a row-boat belonging to Clark, and 
go by water. They took with them two four pound cannon, and 
some smaller guns. 

These men were to float down the Mississippi, thence up the 
Ohio until they reached the mouth of the Wabash. Up this stream 
they were to push their way to a specified point, where they 
were to anchor, and prevent all communication with the fort from 
that quarter. 

Upon the 7th of February, when the cold, biting winds of 
winter still lingered, Clark and his heroic band left Kaskaskia on 
their perilous march. They all seemed to be inspired by the same 
confidence that possessed their chief. He, apparently, dreamed not 
of defeat. His past successes gave him hope to believe anything 
possible to a heroic soul battling for the right. His ambition ran 


GEN. GEORGE R. CLARK. 


325 


high—his courage higher. The thought of humiliating so great a 
personage, and taking prisoner such a force, caused him to fling 
the idea of suffering or failure to the winds, and think only of its 
realization. But one thing troubled him—he feared that his men 
would not be willing to endure what he* himself could. 

Six days’ marching through mud, rain, sleet, and ice, 
brought the Spartan band to the junction of the Little and Big 
Wabash Rivers. It is impossible to give a detailed account of 
those six days. The suffering was scarcely second to that upon 
the historic march from Moscow. The forces of tlie East had 
never experienced such a week. It is to be doubted whether 
American warfare has furnished any parallel. But the worst 
awaited them upon reaching the rivers previously mentioned. 
Ordinarily these rivers, at this point, were three or four miles 
apart. Now the land between them was submerged, and for about 
six miles nothing scarcely could be seen but water. Driftwood 
was floating in all directions. Quite probably in many places the 
streams could not be waded. Quicksands were known to exist all 
along, as many a story was told of horse and rider having sunk 
suddenly, never to rise again. What to do, and how to do it, 
required a genius to decide. Without stopping to harangue his 
men; without waiting for their fears to grow, and their courage 
to fail, the intrepid Kentuckian plunged boldly into the stream and 
cried, “ Follow me!” 

The effect was electric. A shout of admiration arose from 
every lip, and bravely the entire company followed in the wake 
of their leader. For four days were they traversing the unseen, 
and often unfelt, bottoms of these streams. The cold, piercing 
winds froze their garments upon them; the floating ice, logs, and 
other drift, bruised their stiffening limbs, but still they pressed on. 
Ever and anon, when it seemed that enthusiasm was about 
extinct, and courage gone, Clark would strike up some old war 


326 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

song, others would immediately join, and ere they were aware of 
it, their spirits were cheered, their determination strengthened, and 
“Victory or Death,” became the motto of every one. What made 
this remarkable march more difficult, was the circuitous route they 
were obliged to pursue in order to find shallow water, and also 
keep themselves unseen from the Fort. But land was reached at 
last. Once more the noble band stood upon terra Jirfna, about 
ten miles from Vincennes. 

One account of the remainder of this trip makes these ten 
miles covered entirely with water—the overflow, principally, of the 
Embarrass River. Another says little about the condition of the 
ground over which they passed. It is certain that the floods of the 
Embarrass stretched a portion of the way, how far cannot be 
accurately determined. But it is sufficient to know that after 
fighting through the five or six miles just described, the sight of 
more water must have been sufficient to crush their energies. At 
last, however, they were within one day’s march of the fort. The 
suffering, the triumphs, the heroism of that day, no one can 
describe as vividly as Clark himself. Says he: 

“This last day’s march (February 21) through the water, 
was far superior to anything of which the Frenchman had any 
idea. A canoe was sent off, and returned without finding that we 
could pass. I went in her myself, sounded the water, and found 
that it was up to my neck. I returned slowly to the troops, 
giving myself time to think. Every eye was fixed on me. I 
unfortunately spoke in a serious manner to one of my officers; the 
whole were alarmed without knowing what I said. I viewed 
their confusion for about a minute—whispered to those near me, 
to do what I did—immediately put some water in my hand, 
poured on some powder, blackened my face, gave the war whoop, 
and marched into the water without saying a word. The party 
gazed, fell in one after another without saying a word, like a flock 


GEN. GEORGE R. CLARK. 


237 

of sheep. I ordered those near me to strike up a favorite song. It 
soon passed through the line, and the whole went on cheerily.” 

One of the men discovered an elevated path leading to the 
sugar-camp, which assisted them greatly in reaching a small patch 
of dry land. They remained upon the island until morning. 

“ This,” says he, “ was the coldest night we had. The ice 
near the shores was three-fourths of an inch thick. 

“A little after sunrise I lectured my men. What I said I 
forget, but concluded by informing them that passing the plain, 
there in full view, and reaching the opposite woods, would put an 
end to their fatigue. 

“ I immediately stepped into the water without waiting for 
their reply. A huzza took place. As we generally marched 
through the water in a line, before the third entered, I halted, and 
calling to Major Bowman, ordered him to fall in the rear with 
twenty-five men, and put to death any man who refused to march, 
as we wished no such among us. The whole gave a cry of 
approbation, and in we went. 

“ This was the most trying time of all. I generally kept 
fifteen or twenty of the strongest men nearest myself, and judged 
from my own feelings what must be those of others. Getting 
about the middle of the plain, the water about mid-deep, I found 
myself sensibly failing. As there were no trees or bushes for the 
men to support themselves by, I feared that many of the weak 
would be drowned. I ordered the canoes to make the land, 
discharge their loading, and ply backward and forward to pick up 
the men. To encourage the party, I sent some of the strongest 
men forward, with orders when they got to a certain distance, to 
pass the word back that the water was getting shallow, and when 
getting near the woods to cry out— Land! Land!'''* 

Clark says the water never grew shallower, but kept deepen¬ 
ing. However, his stratagem proved entirely successful, as it 


228 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


nerved the men to greater exertions until they should reach the 
woods. He says : 

“ All the low and weakly men hung to the trees or floated on 
logs, until they were taken u]) by the canoes. The strong and tall 
got on shore and built fires. Many would reach shore and fall 
with their bodies half in the water, not being able to support 
themselves.” 

What a marvelous march. The soldiers almost frozen and 
benumbed to unconsciousness, so that many of them could only be 
revived by being shaken vigorously, and rubbed with great 
roughness. Nor was this all. They were nearly famished for 
something to eat. .Fortunately, a canoe, containing some Indian 
squaws and considerable provisions, was passing up the river. This 
was captured, and the hungry men partially satisfied their craving 
appetites. 

“ Crossing now a narrow, deep lake in the canoes,” says 
Clark in his journal, “ we came to a copse of timber called 
Warrior’s Island. We were now in full view of town and fort— 
not a shrub between us, at two miles’ distance. Every man feasted 
his eyes, and forgot he had suffered. It was now we had to display 
our abilities. The plain between us and the town was not a per¬ 
fect level. The sunken grounds were covered with water, full of 
ducks. We observed several persons on horseback shooting them, 
and sent out some of our active young Frenchmen to decoy and 
take one prisoner, which they did. Learned that the British had 
that evening completed the wall of the fort, and that there were 
many Indians in town. Our situation was now truly critical; no 
possibility of retreat in case of defeat, and in full view of a town 
with upward of six hundred men in it—troops, Indians, and 
inhabitants.” 

The American leader was acquainted with one of the great 
chiefs, Tobacco’s son, and could depend upon his friendship. He 





229 


^QUAW-S ASCENDING THE RIVER WITH PRCVISJONS 





































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































230 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


also thought that the French inhabitants rather preferred the Big 
Knives to rule over them than the tyrannical British. So he sent 
the following placard by a messenger to the town : 

“ To the Inhabitants of Post Vincennes. 

“ Gentlemen,— Being now within two miles of your village 
with my army, determined to take your fort this night, and not 
being willing to surprise you, I take this opportunity to request 
you, who are true citizens, to remain still in your houses. Those, 
if any there be, who are friends to the King, will instantly repair 
to the fort, join the ‘ hair-buyer ’ general, and fight like men. If 
any such do not go, and are found afterward, they may depend 
upon severe punishment. On the contrary, those who are true 
friends to liberty, may be sure of being well treated, and I once 
more request them to keep out of the streets. Every one I find 
in arms on my arrival, I shall treat as an enemy.” 

It was about sunset when the little band took up their march 
against the town. One hundred and thirty men, without a heavy 
piece of artillery, determined upon reducing a large fort, with 
nearly five times their own number. But what they were 
lacking in numbers, they made up in courage and skill. The men 
fully understood the dreadful consequences of failure—not im¬ 
prisonment, but torture and death. They had now placed them¬ 
selves in a position where there was no such thing as retreat. It 
was conquer or die. 

The commander made one of his short, decisive speeches, 
thrilled them by his own intrepidity and confidence, and moved 
on. Several hunters were captured and relieved of their ponies, 
which served well for the officers, with which to make a false 
display. The leader understood that if he could convince 
Hamilton that a large force was marching into his town, there 
would be little trouble afterward. He accordingly had put upon 


GEN. GEORGE R, CLARK. 


231 


high poles, so as to reach above the mounds intervening, all the 
flags brought along for that purpose. 

He ordered some to move straight on, and others to march 
and counter-march behind an elevation which obscured the men 
from view, but not the flags. The strategy was completely 
successful. British glasses saw, in the approaching twilight, 
banner after banner, until it was reported that the forces reached 
away up into the hundreds. 

As soon as the shades of night were sufficiently over the 
town, Clark hastened his footsteps, silently circled round to the rear 
of the town, and, before the garrison was aware that an immediate 
attack was intended, had captured the outposts, and his men were 
filling the streets of Vincennes. Many Indians took fright and 
escaped, while others joined the standard of Clark. 

The cannon, which were all upon the second floor, began their 
booming, but as Clark knew the position of these guns, he ordered 
his men close around the building, where they could not even be 
seen. 

The Kentuckians, in the meantime, were not idle. As soon 
as a porthole was opened, half a hundred rifle-balls quickly sped 
through it into the terrified garrison. 

“An irregular fire,” says Clark, “ was kept up from different 
directions for a few minutes, and then only a continually scattering 
fire at the ports, as usual. A great noise and laughter immediately 
commenced, in different parts of the town, by the reserved parties, 
as if they had only fired on the fort for a few minutes for amuse¬ 
ment, and as if those continually firing were being regularly re¬ 
lieved. Conduct similar to this kept the garrison constantly 
alarmed.” 

Hamilton began to think that half the American army must 
be around him. His men were falling rapidly, and it was impos¬ 
sible to injure the enemy in the darkness. About this time, Clark 


232 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


ordered him to surrender. Hamilton wanted time. Clark said 
they might talk it over in the church. To the church, therefore, 
both commanders, with their staffs, repaired, but could agree upon 
no terms. Clark made a fiery talk, in which he intimated that 
both Hamilton and Mayor Hay were leagued with the Indians. 
Although the intimation was indignantly resented by Hay, it proved 
true, as a band of the bloodthirsty wretches returned with prisoners 
and scalps within an hour. 

On the 24th of February the haughty British Governor 
capitulated, turning over into the hands of the victorious Americans 
$50,000 worth of war material, and about eighty prisoners. The 
remainder were permitted to leave the country. 

The remaining history of this wonderful man will occupy 
little space here. His fame reached every home in the Union. He 
continued to fight while the war lasted, and, indeed, after the 
Revolution had closed. Had the forces been at his disposal, 
Detroit would have fallen next after Vincennes. He longed to 
take this stronghold, but it was impossible to get men. 

He was made a Brigadier General, placed in charge of several 
dangerous expeditions, in nearly every instance betokening rare 
ability, endearing him to the hearts of a grateful people. 

His last undertaking, however, was a failure, which so wrought 
upon him as to shatter his ambition. Although yet but a young 
man, still, with his plans and hopes crushed, his life went out, 
and in 1817, residence near Louisville, his spirit left this 

world, to be at rest. 












234 


A WOUNDED TRAPPER 




















































































































































































































































































































































LIFE OF CAPT. SAMUEL BRADY. 


CHAPTER I. 

IRISII-AMERICAN ORIGIN-BORN AMID PERILS-SURROUNDED BY 

HARDSHIPS-FATHER AND BROTHER KILLED BY “ LO ”-RE¬ 
VENGE-A SOLDIER IN THE REVOLUTION-PINNED TO A 

FENCE BY A BRITISH BAYONET-INCIDENTS IN THE INDIAN 

COUNTRY. 

Alongside such characters as Boone, Crockett, and others of 
frontier fame, stands the name of Samuel Brady. Born with Irish 
blood tingling in his veins, though a native of America, he pos¬ 
sessed a restlessness under quiet, and a desire for adventure which 
was to give him great prominence among the brave hearts of his 
day. His father was John Brady, a heroic character of some 
military fame, who held the commission of Captain during the 
early part of the Revolution. His mother, Mary Quigley-Brady, 
was a woman of strong nerve and common sense, yet of a tender 
nature. 

Samuel was reared amid perils, and inured to hardships. Plis 
entire life was a discipline in that direction. Born in 1756, when 
Indians were as plentiful around the settlements as the trees of the 
forest; when to handle a rifle, a tomahawk, and a knife was the 
foundation of an education, without which it were useless to attempt 

235 



236 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS, 


an existence, he proved an apt pupil, and a fair exponent of those 
stirring times. 

The implacable hatred for the red man which characterized 
his later years, was inspired by the barbarous death of his father 
and brother. It was in 1778 when the sad news reached Samuel 
that the Indians had mercilessly slaughtered his much-loved 
brother, and the year following, before the former grief was as¬ 
suaged, came, with crushing weight, the statement of his father’s 
death in the same manner. All of the Irish within him was 
aroused, and the watchword then and there adopted, and ever after 
so faithfully obeyed, was Reveiige! 

He at once sought opportunities to pay his respects to the 
murderers of his father and brother. But the war with England 
arising when he was about twenty years of age, he enlisted as a 
volunteer, to fight the British. It was not long before it was dis¬ 
covered that Brady possessed remarkable coolness and bravery, 
winning the approbation of his othcers and comrades. He assisted 
in driving the British from Boston; was present at the battle of 
Princeton; came near losing his life at the horrible massacre of 
Paoli, and took an active part during the eight years of the war. 

It is said that, at the battle of Princeton, his commander. Col. 
Hand and himself dashed into the camp of the enemy before they 
were aware of it. Seeing they had been too bold, and knowing 
that in a few moments they would be surrounded, Brady seized a 
horse hitched near by, helped Hand upon the animal, and leaping 
up behind him, put spurs to the horse and dashed away. 

On another occasion, while asleep, he was surprised by the 
British. At the first intimation of danger, he jumped to his feet, 
and escaped from the very midst of a half-dozen enemies, who 
were striking and slashing at him in all directions. The bayonet 
of one pinned his blanket to a fence, over which he was jumping, 
but Brady tore it loose and fled. 


CAPT. SAMUEL BRADY. 


237 


But it was as an Indian scoui, in the service of his country and 
humanity, that Samuel Brady was to win his chief laurels, was to 
acquire a reputation along the Allegheny and other parts of 
Pennsylvania, for daring and intrepidity, second to none. His name 
was to become the joy of the whites, and the terror of the reds. 
His presence was to insure safety to the one, and death to the other. 

In 1780 Washington found it necessary to punish the Indians 
in- the southern and western part of the State. He therefore asked 
Col. Broadhead to furnish the most trustworthy scout he could find 
for a reconnoitering expedition. Broadhead at once selected Capt. 
Brady, and assured Gen. Washington that “ no better spy or Indian 
trailer had ever been within the walls of Fort Pitt.” 

A few scraps of information regarding the country, and an 
imperfect map of the same, furnished by Washington, constituted 
Brady’s outfit for the perilous undertaking. A few Chickasaw 
Indians were secured as guides, and these, together with a handful 
of soldiers, made up the expedition. 

They started from Fort Pitt, crossed the Allegheny, and 
marched boldly into the haunts of the merciless savage. Indeed, it 
would have been quite difficult to have distinguished the entire 
party from savages, as they purposely arrayed themselves in the 
garb of the red man to avoid detection. Nor could their superiors 
for craftiness, strategy or marksmanship have been easily found, 
even among the natives of the forest. Brady himself was a thorough 
craftsman of the woods. Never did he leave a trail behind him 
that could be detected by the sharpest-sighted savage. 

His Chickasaw guides were of course a valuable part of the expe¬ 
dition, but after leading the party far into the Indian country, they 
suddenly disappeared, and were never more heard of. It was very 
properly supposed that they had joined the enemy, and would bring 
trouble to the little camp, unless a speedy departure was made. 
Instead, however, of retracing his steps homeward, Brady and the 


23S FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


little squad of soldiers pushed on, determined to accomplish their 
purpose. 

After many a weary day of tramping through the woods, the 
party came suddenly upon a large Indian village, which, from 
descriptions previously given, was recognized as the one sought, it 
being the principal town of the nation. 

Great caution was now necessary, lest a straggling warrior 
or squaw should catch a glimpse of the spies. Accordingly, Brady 
found a thicket near by the village, into which the men crawled, 
and there, during the remaining hours of daylight, they waited. 

Much sport was being indulged in by the large crowd of 
savages, many of them evidently just having returned from some 
victorious expedition. Horse racing, dancing, shooting and many 
other wild scenes were witnessed by the invisible spectators. 

Finally, darkness began to settle over the scene of hilarity, and 
the weary watchers were permitted to leave their place of conceal¬ 
ment in safety. A great deal had been learned. Brady could 
understand, both from word and act, what their intentions were for 
the immediate future. He was also able to estimate quite accurately 
their numbers. Taking careful observations of the surrounding 
country, and choosing the most favorable place for an attack, the 
leader and his staff took up their long and perilous march on the 
return to Fort Pitt. 

Many privations were experienced by the little band. Their 
ammunition gave out as well as their provisions. It seemed for a 
few days as if they were to be starved to death after all, but with 
berries, roots and what game could be secured without a gun they 
partially satisfied the gnawings of hunger, until the walls of the old 
fort were once more in view, and friendly hearts received them 
again to peace and plenty. 

A very striking circumstance occurred on this homeward 
trip, which so beautifully manifests the tenderness and courage 


CAPT. SAMUEL BRADY. 


239 


combined under the rough exterior of a brave frontiersman, that it 
must here be related. 

Having but a single load of ammunition, and that in his gun, 
Capt. Brady had left his fellows to shoot a deer. While cautiously 
winding his way alongside a road in the forest, he heard the sound 
of horses’ hoofs. Concealing himself from view, he waited. Pres¬ 
ently he saw through the trees a tall Indian on horseback, with a 
white woman and her child tied securely behind him. The scout’s 
first impulse was to fire. But a keener sight revealed a number of 
Indians some distance in the rear, and he concluded to wait until 
the horse and riders should come directly opposite, when the result 
would be certain. He did not have to wait long. Just as the 
plumed head came within ten feet of the deadly rifle, the trigger 
was pulled, and all three tumbled from the horse together. As 
quick as flash, Brady was beside them. His knife soon severed the 
cords that bound the three, and seizing the child, with command to 
the mother to follow, the brave man fled with his booty. 

Brady’s comrades had been called to the rescue, but knowing 
they had no ammunition they concluded that other quarters would 
be more suitable to their tastes, and fled. As soon as a j^lace of 
comoarative safety was reached, the deliverer took a look at his 
new proteges. Judge of his surprise when he discovered the 
woman to be an old friend, by^he name of Stoop—Jennie Stoop— 
whom he had met many times at her home, and who also was joy¬ 
fully surprised to iind herself protected by the famous Capt. Brady. 

After a short pause until the Indians should be out of the 
neighborhood, the Captain with his charge started for the fort, which 
thev gained without harm. Such deeds of valor could not fail to 
elevate the doer of them to a pinnacle of fame among the men and 
women of that dav. The recital of it to Washington caused that 
noble-hearted patriot to take special interest ever afterward in the 
intrepid scout. 


240 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

An incident in the life of Capt. Samuel Brady occurred soon 
after the one just recorded, which on some accounts is almost with¬ 
out a parallel in the records of adventure. 

He had been out trapping on Beaver River, near Fort McIntosh. 
Perfectly well acquainted with the country, he considered himself 
safe whenever in this region, but this time his situation was very 
precarious. 

He was seated near the bank of the stream, half dozing, 
watching his traps, when suddenly he was seized about the neck, 
and his arms pinioned in a twinkling. Looking up, to his dismay, 
he found himself in the power of half a dozen bloodthirsty savages, 
who knew only too well the character of their captive. 

Instead of killing him then, it afforded them greater pleasure 
to torture their prisoner awhile, and give the other warriors an op¬ 
portunity of witnessing his execution. So he was marched to their 
village, and bound, so that it was utterly impossible to loose the 
bands. After inflicting several indignities upon him, cutting him 
here and there with their knives, throwing coals of fire upon his 
feet, and so forth, they concluded to burn him at the stake. A 
huge fire was built, and the captive placed within a circle near it. 
Men, women, and children surrounded the victim, dancing and 
yelling, and tantalizing him in every possible manner. The case 
seemed desperate for Brady. Nevei^efore had he been quite so com¬ 
pletely at the mercy of a number of beings whose make-up seemed 
totally void of that attribute. He began to think his fate was to be 
that of his father and brother. But, ever on the alert to outwit 
them, he finally struck upon a plan. The bands around his hands 
and arms had been removed, so that he had the free use of them. 
Noticing an old squaw, with a fapfoose on her back, dancing near 
him, he suddenly seized them and hurled them both into the 
flames. Of course, there was utter consternation for a moment; 
then every one rushed to the rescue. This was just what Brady 


K.APT. SAMUEL BRADT, 


241 

had calculated upon. Taking advantage of this state of affairs, he 
rushed out of camp, over the declivity near by, and, before any one 
could get started in pursuit, he was lost to sight in the thicket of 
the ravine. Yell after yell rent the air. Every warrior dashed 
after him, and the woods were scoured through and through. But 
their wily foe had been too much for even Indian cunning, and 
Capt. Brady was not found. It was several days before he reached 
the fort, but finally he came in, weary and hungry, though, after a 
few hours’ rest, ready for another escapade with the savages. 



16 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS, 


342 


CHAPTER II. 

WEARY OF REST-ADVENTURES P'OR PLEASURE-BRADY AND A 

DUTCHMAN CAPTURE AN INDIAN CAMP-“ THE TIMES THAT 

TRIED men’s souls”-HOSTILITY TO THE HOSTILES- 

BRADY’s part in the excursion-NARROW ESCAPE- 

THREE birds WITH ONE STONE-SURPRISING AN INDIAN 

CAMP. 

Shortly after the experiences recorded in the preceding chapter, 
Brady, becoming restless under the unusual quiet which seemed to 
have settled over the fort, requested the commanding officer to give 
him permission to run up the river a distance on a scouting expedi¬ 
tion. All the company he desired was a stalwart Dutchman, by 
the name of Phouts, whom Brady knew to be courageous as a lion, 
and yet cunning as a fox. The request was granted. Phouts was 
made acquainted with the project, which delighted him greatly. 

“ By tunder und blitzen, Gaptun,” cried the Dutchman, “ das 
ish goot. I vood as sooner go mit you to kill dem redskins, as to 
go at de finest veddin’ in de coontry.” 

iBy the next morning’s sun the hunters and spies were out of 
camp. A pouch of parched corn, a few pieces of dried venison, 
and some scraps of dry bread constituted their provisions. What 
cared they for the luxuries of life, when the prospect of adventure 
and Indian scalps loomed up before them ? So they plodded along, 
not noisily, it is true, but enjoying the sport of taking down a depy 


CAPT, SAMUEL BRADT. 


243 


or a turkey now and then, until the borders of danger were 
reached. 

A collection of crows was noticed a short distance off, hov¬ 
ering over a certain space. This was evidence sufficient to the 
practiced scout that a camp was near at hand, either occupied by 
savages or recently vacated. The discovery being made early in the 
day, the men concluded to rest awhile, and approach the supposed 
camp after nightfall. Finally, about midnight, they started in the 
direction where they expected to see the light of a fire. Nor were 
they disappointed, for soon the glimmering was seen, piercing the 
otherwise impenetrable darkness, and proving that life still existed 
at the camp. 

Noiselessly as cats, Brady and Phouts approached the fire. 
Everything was as silent as the tomb. At first, the fire seemed to 
be the only evidence of life, but upon getting closer, an old Indian 
and his dog were seen sitting near a tree, half dozing, but not 
asleep. The Dutchman reached for his gun, and was just about to 
shoot, when Brady caught his arm, and demanded utter silence. 
The report of a gun might bring a hundred howling savages 
upon them, whereas the silent midnight watcher could be captured 
without any noise. 

But Phouts was greatly disappointed. He hadn’t seen so fine 
an opportunity since they had left the fort, and it took some strong 
language from Brady to keep the old rifle’s mouth still. Brady 
finally whispered to Phouts that he might hold his gun in readiness 
to put an end to the dog, provided it attempted to defend its master 
while Brady was capturing the old Indian. Getting within a few 
feet of the lonely sentinel, Brady leaped upon him, and held him as 
in a vise, while the Dutchman came forward and bound him. 

He was put into a canoe, and the trio started to return to the 
fort. It was ascertained that the main body of hostile warriors 
had the day before departed for a raid on a white settlement up 


244 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS, 

the river, intending to massacre the entire settlement, and carry off 
all the plunder that could be secured. Brady and Phouts made all 
possible haste to get assistance from the fort, and proceed to the 
rescue. 

On the way, their very docile and obedient captive took ad¬ 
vantage of Phouts’ generous sympathies, and came very near being 
master of the party. The Indian had continually complained of 
the thongs around his hands hurting him severely. When Brady 
had gone away from the camp for a few moments, Phouts was pre¬ 
vailed upon to unloose his bands, and give the “ noble red man of 
the forest ” a rest. Scarcely had this magnanimous act been per¬ 
formed, than the Indian seized a gun standing near, and in a mo¬ 
ment more would have sent a leaden messenger of death into the 
brain of his guardian. But the Dutchman was too quick for him. 
Quick as a flash, his tomahawk was out, and in an instant more the 
treacherous savage lay dead at his feet, his skull having been 
crushed by the murderous weapon. 

“Now,” says Phouts, “you dirty villain! You vood kill your 
frient, vood you? Veil I tinks you vont now. I tinks you learn 
some sense dis time. You vas de meanest skunk dat ever vas. But 
I reckon you vont slip up on old Phouts agin.” 

When Brady returned he was very much surprised to discover 
the Dutchman sitting upon the dead body of the savage, soliloquiz¬ 
ing on the tragedy. After an explanation, the two whites again 
started for the fort, which was Anally reached without further ad¬ 
venture. They were gladly welcomed back by the commander, 
who was fearful lest they had fallen victims to the bloodthirsty red 
men. The account they gave greatly agitated the general, as he 
felt the necessity of sending men immediately to the rescue, yet 
couldn’t spare them from his limited force. Word had previously 
been sent to headquarters for more soldiers, but they had not yet 
arrived on the scene, 


•.dint. -U'l 



CAPTIVES ESCAPING FROM INDIANS. 


245 



246 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS, 


With the British on one side and the Indians on the other, 
ceaseless vigilance was of the most importance. The times for rest 
were far between, and when they did come they were thought of 
as only a “calm before the storm,” and at such intervals it was 
necessary for the watchers to be aggressive. The exigencies of 
such times demand special exhibitions of cunning, coolness, and 
courage, and these faculties were found to be abundant in Brady, so 
that his advancement was rapid, and his fame spread far and wide. 
During the closing months of the Revolution, and while every 
available person was needed to fight the British in that heroic strug¬ 
gle for liberty, the Indians carried on their depredations with a high 
hand. Solitary homes were visited; women and children were un¬ 
mercifully sacrificed. Border settlements and small towns, with 
few left at home for protection, except boys, old men, and women, 
were visited by the bloodthirsty wretches, and every vestige of life 
and property was swept out of existence. Their incursions grew 
more frequent. Bolder and more daring became the hostile tribes, 
incited by the English, until it became an absolute necessity to leave 
the British for the time, and rout the savages. Consequently sev¬ 
eral expeditions were set on foot for their extermination. The war 
must be carried into the very heart of their country. 

One of the principal excursions for this purpose was under the 
command of Col. Broadhead. This commander placed the chief 
division of his troops under Capt. Samuel Brady. 

The position was a responsible one, the duties requiring great 
cunning, daring, and not a little generalship. But Brady was in 
every way qualified. This had been proven in many a fierce con¬ 
flict before. The wisdom of Broadhead in selecting such a man 
was soon to be proven by a fine piece of strategy. 

The troops marched up the Allegheny River until they 
reached a point now known as Brady’s Bend, on Redbank Creek. 
Here Brady suddenly espied a company of painted warriors coming 


CAPT. SAMUEL BRADT. 


247 


leisurely along, little suspecting their imminent danger. The main 
body of the whites under Broadhead was a considerable distance 
up the road, toward which the Indians were traveling. Brady 
ordered his men into ambush until the savages should pass, intend¬ 
ing to let them meet Broadhead before any firing was done. As 
soon as his troops could withdraw from their ambush without dis¬ 
covery, Brady hastened down the road in the direction whence the 
Indians had come, to a narrow pass between two overhanging cliffs, 
where, once secreted, he could riddle them with bullets before they 
could retreat. The scheme was entirely successful. The Indians 
went on, suddenly coming upon Col. Broadhead with his large 
force, who fired upon them, killing many, and causing the remainder 
to beat a hasty retreat. Upon reaching the narrow pass, Brady, 
with his rangers, opened a deadly fire upon them, annihilating al¬ 
most the entire body. A few saved themselves by swimming the 
creek, among whom was the famous young chief Cornplanter, 
afterward so well known as the leading spirit of the Senecas. 

The rout was so complete that the report of it, and of the vast 
forces accomplishing it, caused a universal stampede among sur¬ 
rounding tribes, and Broadhead finally returned, bringing peace to 
all that region. 

Near Beaver, Pennsylvania, is a small elevation called Brady’s 
Hill. How it came by this cognomen we will now proceed to 
relate. 

Brady had been selected to take charge of another scouting 
expedition. He was given a small squad of men with whom he 
was to scour the country, cut off straggling bands of savages 
around Fort McIntosh, and then pay a visit to the Sandusky tribe. 

Everything went smoothly for a season, but just as the party 
thought they had accomplished their most perilous undertaking, a 
band of hostile reds ambushed by the roadside, suddenly poured a 
volley into their midst, following up the fire with tomahawk and 


248 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


knife, until all but one of the brave whites were weltering in their 
blood. That one who escaped was the leader, Capt. Brady. Ever 
agile and desperate in an encounter, he had fought his way through 
and out of the reach of the hatchet. But by no means was he out 
of danger. The Indians desired his scalp more than any other, so 
of course a hot pursuit was made. Mile after mile did the hero of 
so many conflicts flee. Hour after hour, with wonderful endur¬ 
ance did he speed over hill, through valley, into dense forest, and 
across open prairie. Finally, almost ready to drop with exhaustion, 
he came upon a huge tree lately felled to the earth, with rich 
foliage still clinging to the branches. Here he paused a moment; 
what was to be done in order to evade the bloodthirsty pursuers 
was the question. He had not had time to hide his tracks. They 
would soon be upon him, and the chances were that their numbers 
would overwhelm him. But with true genius he struck upon a 
novel scheme—he would conceal himself in the foliage of the tree. 

But the tracks ! These must be changed or obliterated. He 
therefore walked out from the tree three or four hundred yards, as 
though continuing the journey, and then with his back to the tree, 
retraced his steps. He argued that the Indians would see his tracks, 
rush on until they suddenly came to the stopping place, and very 
likely return to the old tree for council. If they did this they 
would all take a seat upon the tree in fair range for his rifle. After 
the tracks were fixed he carefully ensconced himself in the thick 
foliage, gathering about him the branches and leaves so that it was 
impossible to be seen, and waited. Many a heart would have 
betrayed its possessor under such circumstances, but Brady’s, never! 
Soon, puffing and blowing, came along three savages. They were 
powerful men of large, muscular frame, and gripped tightly the 
dreaded tomahawk, as they hurried over the ground. They alone 
had been able to keep up the chase, the remainder having either 
become completely exhausted, or considered the pursuit futile. 


CAPT. SAMUEL BRADP. 


249 

The three leaped over the old tree, and on they sped. But lo ! 
they suddenly reach the terminus of the trail. What does it mean? 
Has he sunk into the ground? Has he taken wings, and escaped 
into the heavens? They were ready to believe almost anything of 
Brady. He had eluded them so often, that a kind of snperstitious 
idea prevailed concerning his ability to suddenly disappear. They 
stopped, and returned to the tree. A council must be held, and 
gladly they accepted a seat upon the old trunk. Ah ! had they but 
seen the muzzle of that fatal rifle, they had looked for other quarters 
for deliberation. Suddenly, from the leafy branches came a flash, 
a report, and the three bloodthirsty pursuers tumbled to the ground. 
Brady, with a terrible yell of victory, rushed upon the prostrate 
forms, and although only one was dead, the scout’s tomahawk left 
neither of the others to tell the story of their failure. It was seen 
that the bullet had passed through the heart of one, and grazed the 
faces of the other two. Being slightly stunned and frightened, they 
had fallen from the log. 

The Sewickley settlement had been attacked. Fort Pitt was 
called on for assistance. Contrary to the custom of the commander 
he placed some other than Brady in charge of a posse of soldiers to 
run down the marauders. But Brady could ill rest while others 
were fighting Indians. His education had not fitted him for rest 
under such circumstances. He asked the commander for some men 
to assist in the search. After considerable importuning he was 
given five soldiers and one Indian. With this meager force he 
started up the Allegheny in search of perhaps a hundred hostile 
red men. 

The other band of soldiers had gone in an entirely different 
direction. Brady, however, concluded the warriors had gone down 
the Allegheny in canoes, and after the massacre, had returned by 
the same route. 

Several days’ march brought him suddenly upon their camp. 


250 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


It was almost night when the discovery was made, so Brady and 
his men waited that they might cross the river under cover of 
darkness, to a point nearer the savages. 

After much difficulty in fording the turbid waters, the well- 
drenched party marched along the shore, not far from the camp. 
Here they rested, dried their clothes, and began to reconnoiter. 
Silently they approached the slumbering savages. The stillness of 
midnight had settled o’er the scene, as the heroic frontiersman crept 
nearer and nearer. One savage, aroused by the breaking of a limb, 
the tread of a foot, or the whisper of those approaching, leaped to 
his feet, looked wildly in all directions, walked out a distance from 
the camp until he came within a very few feet of where Brady 
lay concealed, then, apparently satisfied, returned to his comrades 
and was soon in the land of dreams. 

The whites were to lie as still as death until daylight, when it 
was arranged to fire at a given signal. Weary indeed were the 
hours thus spent in watching. Many, less weary, would have 
fallen asleep, or accidentally given warning of impending danger, 
but these men knew that their lives, and quite probably many 
other lives, depended upon the success of their undertaking, and 
perhaps even the successful termination of this night’s work. 

Finally, the gray dawn began to make its appearance. The 
impenetrable darkness that precedes ap}-)roaching light, was scattered 
by beams from tbe slowly rising sun, and the savages, with manv a 
yawn, rose from their beds of earth. Rose, as they supposed, for a 
day of joyous hunting spent in the forests of their fathers, but reallv 
to spend but a few short moments ere they should journey to the 
happy hunting grounds of the Great Spirit. 

At the appointed time, every white fired, and five Indians fell, 
to rise no more. Again was a volley of death’s messengers sent 
into the terrified camp, and others succumbed to the inevitable. A 
rush was then made upon the balance, when many more were 


CAPT. SAMUEL BRADT. 


251 


stricken down, a few only of the entire company escaping. The 
victory was complete, and Brady was chief victor again. 

When he returned to the fort, and related his story, it was 
again conceded that his judgment, strategy, and courage, fitted him 
tc command the most perilous expeditions. 



253 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS, 


CHAPTER III. 

END OF THE WAR FOR INDEPENDENCE-CONTINUATION OF THE 

THREE HUNDRED YEARS’ WAR AGAINST THE INDIANS- 

RRADY RESCUES A FAMILY-MARRIES MISS SWEARINGEN- 

DIES A NATURAL DEATH. 

The Revolution was over. The flag of American Independ¬ 
ence floated out over Liberty Hall, in Philadelphia, while weary 
hands and sad hearts received new life as the joyful news was 
heralded over the country. The last battle for freedom and human 
rights had been fought, peace had fallen upon the tempestuous sea 
of American life. 

Peace to the nation, but not to many of the people of that 
nation. The treacherous red man, with his appetite whetted for 
gore, was still within their borders, and full many a harrowing tale 
was to be related of his cruelties, even after the pipe of peace had 
been passed around. 

It was on a beautiful day in June, when Capt. Samuel Brady, 
with only two companions, started to make a journey from Fort 
McIntosh to Fort Pitt. The birds were singing cheerily; the 
sunshine found its way down through the green foliage of the 
forest, making fantastic images, while the sparkling brook leaped 
and danced, singing sweet melodies as it hurried on to the 
larger stream. 

The hunters were in good spirits, although they well knew 


CAPT. SAMUEL BRADY. 


253 


the lurking oavage might, at any moment, appear before them. 
Nothing was ceen, however, of the dreaded foe, until they came 
to a lone cabin, standing on the present site of Sewickley, owned 
by one Albert Grey. Hearing a noise before reaching this place, 
the scouts cautiously approached until they perceived that the 
house was enveloped in flames, and past reclaiming. 

Not knowing but that the perpetrators were concealed near 
by, they moved around the building without permitting themselves 
to be seen. Presently the sound of a horse’s step was heard 
approaching by the road. Brady took a position near where he 
must pass, determined to know something of the traveler. 

Soon the horseman appeared in sight, and the watcher 
recognized in him the owner of the cabin. Brady knew that as he 
himself was arrayed in the garb of an Indian, should the traveler 
catch sight of him, his rifle would be brought into immediate 
requisition. So, in order to prevent Grey from riding into the 
jaws of death, which surely awaited him at the cabin, he concluded 
to unhorse him without injury. Accordingly, when the horse was 
about opposite Brady’s ambush, the latter jumped at the rider, 
and pulled him from his steed, with the words: 

“ Grey, for heaven’s sake, don’t fight. I’m Brady. The 
Indians are at your house.” 

Grey at first struggled violently, but found himself in the 
grasp of a vise, until the words just related told him what was the 
matter. 

It was a daring deed. It was a manoeuvre that a less 
courageous man would never have adopted. But it proved 
successful, and the two then moved toward the burning house. 

Of course Grey’s only thought was for his wife and children. 
Not stopping, therefore, to ascertain the number of savage fiends 
that might be lurking near, he rushed madly toward the building. 

No signs of human beings could be seen. Not even the 


254 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


charred forms of loved ones among the ruins, and after careful 
search, the party concluded that the inmates had been carried off. 
It was a great relief to the stricken father and husband to find that 
even this was true, although their fate might be worse than death. 

Capt. Brady at once concluded that the savages had made 
for the Big Beaver ford. One of the others suggested that aid had 
better be secured from one of the forts, as the number of Indians 
evidently four times exceeded their own. But the intrepid leader 
replied, “No! They must be stopped before getting beyond the 
Big Beaver River, or they can never be stopped. Wc must do 
the work.” 

The four then took up the trail, and pursued it with all possible 
haste. Being acquainted with every nook and corner of this 
region, Brady could frequently make short cuts, thereby gaining 
greatly in time and space upon the retreating reds. 

At last they came to the ford, and, sure enough, the trail was 
fresh and distinct—they had but recently crossed. It led toward a 
sequestered ravine near by, with which the ranger was thoroughly 
familiar, where undoubtedly they had stopped for the night. 
Grey was anxious to push on and know the worst. Brady 
restrained his impetuosity, concluding that a midnight attack 
would be the surest. The ravine was approached in the most 
stealthy manner, and the camp fire was soon seen. Every Indian 
was slumbering, while off at a distance, by themselves, sat Grey’s 
wife and children, beside another white woman they had secured. 
Of course the heart of the husband beat loudly, as he beheld his 
loved ones again, and with great difficulty he kept calm enough to 
await the signal of attack. It was an anxious hour. If a twig 
snapped, or some animal of the woods rustled the leaves unusually, 
the sleeping braves would start, sometimes sit up and gaze about, 
but in every instance considered the .awakening cause insufficient 
for investigation. 


CAPT. SAMUEL BRADT. 


255 


And now as the fire burns low, and perfect quiet seems to 
have settled upon all, the little band of rescuers crawl toward their 
unconscious enemies. Silently do they each reach the side of a 
sleeping brave. The tomahawk is raised on high. The four, with 
steady nerves and determined face, await the signal to slay. Brady 
makes a slight noise with his mouth, and four hatchets are buried 
deeply in as many skulls. 

Four are dead, but at least six more leap to their feet, ready 
to kill or be killed. The whites, however, give them little time 
for reflection—little opportunity to use their bloody weapons. Like 
hail from the storm-cloud the blows fall upon them thick and fast, 
until every warrior lies bleeding on the earth. 

It was a joyful yet a frightful moment to the captives, but when 
the last foe was down and the work of rescuing innocent lives com¬ 
plete, the reader can imagine the meeting of captives and deliver¬ 
ers. It was reward enough for a lifetime to such men, and they 
asked nothing more. 

It is impossible to give the exact time and place of all the en¬ 
counters of these frontiersmen. The}'^ kept no record themselves, 
and cared not to be immortalized in history, relating the circum¬ 
stances of their lives to friends merely for pastime. These stories 
have been handed down through reliable channels, and nothing un¬ 
reliable has found a place in this volume. Several adventures pub¬ 
lished regarding Brady, but considered doubtful, have been rejected 
in the preparation of this sketch. 

Brady cared little for social life. He loved the woods; to be 
with nature, when not fighting, where he could revel in the “pleas¬ 
ures of loneliness.” 

However, after living a single life till nearly forty years of age, 
he married the daughter of Capt. Van Swearingen, of Gen. Mor¬ 
gan’s rifle corps. The young lady, whose name was Drusilla, was 
^ genuine beauty of th^ oldeji times^ being surrounded constantly 


256 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


by many suitors. But the brave face, noble bearing, and kind 
heart of Capt. Samuel Brady shone high above all others in the 
eyes of Miss Swearingen. Her father opposed the match on the 
ground of Brady’s reckless life. He knew his daughter would be 
subjected to many privations and perils. The young lady’s love, 
however, was strong enough to make her willing to submit to the 
ordeal, and they were married. This event took place about the 
year 1785. Their domestic life was ever joyful, but their separa¬ 
tions were so frequent and continued as to greatly mar the happi¬ 
ness of the devoted wife. Two sons were born to them, both of 
whom are long since dead. 

The time of Brady’s death cannot now be determined. The 
place was West Liberty, West Virginia. Here he had lived for a 
number of years previous to his demise, a peaceful, happy life, the 
hero of more hairbreadth escapes and renowned adventures than 
any one in West Virginia. 


















DAVY CROCKETT 





















































LIFE OF DAVY CROCKETT. 


CHAPTER I. 

EARLY LIFE-SCHOOL EXPERIENCES-FLEES THE PATERNAL 

ROD-VISITS GERARDSTOWN-WANDERS TO BALTIMORE- 

LEARNS THE HATTER’s TRADE-THE TRUANT RETURNS- 

COURTSHIP AND MARRIAGE. 

David Crockett, the subject of this chapter, was one of those 
singularly combined characters which defy all criticism by ordinary 
laws. Similar in many respects to the associates of his day, yet in 
point of originality, humor and judgment, he was the peer of many 
who have shone as heroes of a higher civilization. It is impossible 
to classify such a man. Endowed with natural ability in an emi¬ 
nent degree, yet wholly untutored, and devoid of culture; appear¬ 
ing to the masses as a great original genius; looked upon as the 
hero of many a physical and mental conflict by thousands, who, in 
their admiration of such characteristics, entirely lose sight of 
defects; he yet constantly placed himself in attitudes, by word and 
act, that were calculated to bring upon himself ridicule and con¬ 
demnation from the more refined classes. 

Nevertheless, all will admit his bravery, his patriotism, his wit 
and his originality. He rose from the humblest walks of life, by 

259 



26 o 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEER:^^ AND SCOUTS. 


indomitable pluck, perseverance, and industry, to a seat in the 
national assembly at Washington, and by his eccentric manner, 
humorous utterances, and undisputed ability, created for himself 
such a reputation that thousands flocked to see him wherever he 
went. He was born Aug. 17, 1786, on the banks of the Nola- 
chucky River, in what is now the State of Tennessee. His father, 
John Crockett, was a native of Ireland, and a man of great courage. 
He was a soldier in the Revolutionary struggle, gaining for himself 
a reputation for heroism which in less stirring times would 
have given him a place high up in the record of events. He moved 
to Tennessee after the war was over, where he married Rebecca 
Hawkins, a woman of rustic manners, but fine sentiments. The 
love that her son and other children ever bore her is evidence of her 
maternal worth. 

David’s father and mother lived in humble style in different 
parts of this wild region, tilling the soil most of the time, until the 
subject of this sketch was seven or eight years of age. They then 
moved near Greenville, where Joseph Crockett kept a tavern on the 
road between Greenville and Knoxville. 

It was here that Davy learned many of the tricks, listened to 
the recital of thrilling anecdotes, and had his brain filled with the 
strange, weird stories which afterward supplied the immense fund 
of humor running through his veins. 

He was what is generally termed “ a wild boy.” Travelers 
stopping at the Crockett tavern were struck with his fearless man¬ 
ner and shrewd utterances. Nor were his surroundings such as to 
develop any great degree of piety or refinement. He says in the 
preface to his autobiography: “ I don’t know of anything in my 
book to be criticised on by honorable men. Is it my spelling? 
That’s not my trade. Is it on grammar? I hadn’t time to learn it, 
and make no pretensions to it. Is it on the order and arrangement 
of my book ? I never wrote one before, and never read very many,” 


DAVr CROCKETT. 


261 


At this tavern the future Congressman lived, or existed, until 
he was twelv'e years of age, before he started to school. A man 
by the name of Benjamin Kitchen had opened a j^rivate school in 
the neighborhood, and to this Davy and his brothers repaired, to be 
instructed in the alphabet and rudimentary elements of an educa¬ 
tion. As has been said, our young hero had acquired some reputa¬ 
tion as a story-teller, a pugilist, and leader in mischief. So, when 
his benign countenance first shone upon the collected youth at the 
schoolroom, said youth were greatly delighted over their new ac¬ 
quisition. But the ocean of learning upon which he had just 
launched his frail craft, was soon to grow tempestuous, and hurl 
him upon the rocks. He was not sufficiently meek .and gentle for 
some of his comrades. About the fourth day under Master Kitchen 
witnessed a disruption. One of the older boys attempted to tyran¬ 
nize over the youth of twelve summers, which was resented. 
Fearing the terrible rod of the master, however, the boys did not 
come together at school. Just before the pupils were dismissed in 
the evening, Davy slipped out of the house, ran down the road a 
distance, and concealed himself in the bushes. After awhile, along 
came the offending associate, with a number of his comrades. Just 
as they drew op2:)Osite the place where Davy lay concealed, the 
latter leaped out from the bushes, and “ went for ” his antagonist in 
a way that completely demoralized the whole crowd. Fie gave 
him a terrible scratching and pounding, after which he quietly 
withdrew from the scene of blood and carnage to a more j^eaceful 
atmosphere. 

This circumstance was to mark the end of his educational 
career. It was the straw which was to break the back of Davy’s 
literary camel. He returned home, and went about his work that 
evening as usual. The next morning he arose with some doubts in 
his mind as to the probable course he ought to pursue. Of course, 
the report of the fight would reach Master Kitchen almost as soon 


262 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


as he himself would. The inevitable consequences would be a 
most tremendous flogging. So our hero weighed carefully the 
premises, and said premises brought him naturally to the conclu¬ 
sion that his presence was not altogether necessary at the school¬ 
room. He had a tender back. He had seen the master’s rods. 
There had been a collision between tender backs and flexible raw- 
hides, during his short sojourn at this educational center. So the 
idea grew upon him, that the healthiest atmosphere for a young 
man of his age, was almost anywhere away from that schoolroom. 
That day he lay out in the woods. In the evening, when his 
brothers came along from school, Davy joined them, secured 
their promise of secresy, and returned home in a most happy 
mood. This scheme was repeated several days, but Ben¬ 
jamin Kitchen finally sent a note to Mr. Crockett, at the 
tavern, inquiring about his son’s absence. Ah! that was a cruel 
thing for Master Kitchen to do. Davy was arraigned. He plead 
guilty, and received a stern command to start to school next 
morning, or suffer a severe chastisement at home. Next morning 
came, and Davy hesitated about going. His father, seeing the in¬ 
clination of his wayward boy to disobey the command, grew 
wrathful, as full many a parent has done since, gathered a young 
hickory, and started to enforce the law. But the victim of the law 
fled—fled with all the speed he could acquire, followed closely by 
his irate parent. On, on they went, until a mile had been passed 
over, and still the race between liberty and law continued. Finally, 
the son saw a clump of bushes ahead, just beneath a hill which hid 
him from view. Into this thicket he plunged, and waited patiently 
until his father had passed by, puffing and blowing, when the 
youth left his concealment, and started out into the world as a 
wanderer. 

This was the end of his early education. He hired to a 
neighbor who was about to start with a drove of cattle for Vir- 


DA vr CROCKETT. 


263 


ginia. The distance they expected to travel w’as five or six hun¬ 
dred miles, and the hardships were sufficient to have frightened a 
modern youth of twelve summers, but David was hardy and inured 
to exposure, so he bravely took his place among the rest, and 
started for the East. The company did not sell their cattle until 
they reached a town called Port Royal, Va., where a sale was 
effected, and our youth started homeward. His journey for home 
was begun in company with some one of the party, and it was ar¬ 
ranged that they should each take turns at riding, there being one 
horse between them. But concerning this incident, he says: 

“ I traveled on with my new comrade about three days’ 
journey, but, much to his discredit, as I then thought, and still 
think, he took care all the time to ride, but never tie. At last I 
told him to go ahead, and I would come when I got ready. He 
gave me four dollars, to bear my expenses upward of four hundred 
miles, and then cut out and left me.” 

But young Crockett never “ got ready ” to finish that journey. 
He soon fell in with a “ wagoner ” going in the opposite direction. 

“Where are you going?” asked Davy. 

“ To G.erardstown, near Winchester,” said the man. 

“Do you ever expect to come back to Tennessee?” inquired 
the boy. 

“Yes; I’ll come back as soon as I get rid of my load. I 
travel this road a good deal, making a trip every month or so. Do 
you want to jump in and go up with me?” said the stranger. 

This set Davy to thinking again. He thought a great deal of 
his father, mother, brothers, and sisters. He had been considerably 
homesick for several days. His tender heart was pained at 
the thought of so long a separation from the folks at home. There 
was Benjamin Kitchen at home, there the threatening father. 
He knew, or thought he knew, what the result of his returning 
home would be, so he said “Yes” to the man’s invitation. 


264 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


“All aboard for Gerardstown!” cried the new found friend, 
whose name proved to be Adam Myers, and Davy was aboard. 
Farther and farther from home traveled the stripling, until the 
distance could be measured by hundred mile chains. Ever and 
anon the tear would start, or the utterance grow choked when, 
upon the wings of imagination, the young man again sat by the 
family fireside or wandered with his brothers and sisters over the 
hills and through the woods about his home. But lie possessed a 
determination of extraordinary strength and will, power that was 
inflexible at times, so he braved the hardships and tried toenjo}^ life. 

Having reached Gerardstown he hired out to a farmer and 
worked for several months. He then wandered down to Baltimore to 
see the wonders of that great city. Among the first things that 
attracted his attention were the ships that lay at anchor near the 
wharves. He immediately went aboard one, and the captain, being 
struck by his precocious manner, asked him if he would not like to 
go across the ocean. Davy thought that would be one of the 
greatest experiences jDOSsible to humanity. He at once accepted 
the offer and hurried away to get his clothing and what money was 
due him from his old employer. But his becoming a sailor was to 
be knocked in the head by the latter gentleman. He ridiculed the 
idea, warned Davy, and finally refused to give him his clothes and 
money. Indeed, he kept watch over the would-be mariner so 
closely that it was impossible for Davy to get back again to the ship. 
The man said he was going to take him back to Tennessee, and so 
they started to return. After traveling quite a distance, however, 
Davy managed to slip away from him, and made tracks, with all 
haste, to Baltimore. He met with a wagoner and proceeded with 
him toward Pennsylvania. Getting extremely homesick, however, 
he concluded to again weiid his way homeward. But he hadn’t a 
cent of money in the world, for his previous employer had kept all 
that he had earned. His friend, though, with whom he was 



26 i ; 


DEATH STRUGGLE. 


































































































































































































































































266 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


traveling, made up a purse of three dollars for him and set him 
afloat once more. This money lasted until he reached Montgomery 
Court House, in Virginia, where he was obliged to hire out to one 
James Caldwell, for a shilling a day. After working one month 
for Caldwell, the future Congressman bound himself to a hatter, to 
learn the trade. He served in this capacity for eighteen months, at 
the expiration of which time his employer broke up, and David was 
once again left to shift for himself. Of course he had no means, 
and very poor clothes. So he was compelled to hire out to whom¬ 
soever he could until the coffers might be sufficiently replenished 
for another homeward effort. At last the almighty dollar is won, 
and our hero turns his face to the hills of Tennessee. Mile after 
mile is trod by the footworn traveler, hour after hour speeds away, 
and the fires of home once more send up their smoke within sight 
of the truant boy. O what thoughts were coursing through the 
young man’s brain ! Three years had he been away—three years 
of yearning to catch a glimpse of some familiar face—yet in three 
years not one word had been received from his father’s family. 

He reaches the old tavern. Time has changed the boy of 
twelve summers into a full-grown lad of fifteen. He enters the 
house, and there sit the dear ones whom he has often longed to see. 
They do not recognize him. He pretends to be traveling, and 
secures a room for the night. But as they seat themselves around 
the old family board, where there had been one vacant seat for 
these three years, the full light of the candle falls upon his face, 
and something in his familiar manner tells the secret. In a moment 
his eldest sister finds her tongue, and cries : 

“That is my long lost brother ! Oh, my dear brother,” and 
crying aloud for joy they all take the prodigal to their embrace, 
where such happiness as only comes at great intervals in a lifetime 
fills his heart, and those about him. Home ! magic word ! How 
it thrills the soul of a wandering child ! How it nerves the strong, 


DA vr CROCKETT. 


267 


inspires the weak, and rests with a sacred benediction upon the 
head of every one, young and old, who has ever been blessed by 
its hallowed associations! Davy thought surely there was “ no 
place like home”—and there wasn’t. 

Joseph Crockett was slightly in debt. His tavern didn’t keep 
him “ aboveboard” quite, so he proposed to his son that if he would 
work for a neighbor long enough to pay off a thirty-six dollar note 
held against Mr. Crockett, he, Davy, should be given his liberty, 
and be his own man. The proposition was accepted, and the note 
paid. But the boy did a nobler act; he understood his father was 
indebted to an old Quaker to the amount of forty dollars. This he 
determined to wipe out also. Accordingly he labored hard for six 
months, at the expiration of which time the note was pocketed by 
the boy, and handed over to his delighted parent. 

But It was while at the Quaker’s that Cupid first sought the 
youth. A biography without a love scene would indeed be ill 
appreciated. For such scenes these pages need not go begging, since 
the subject of them met with 

“ Many a slip ’twixt the cup and the lip.” 

If there was any weak point in the organization of young 
Crockett, it was his tendency to fall In love. The Quaker had a 
niece come to visit him from North Carolina. Davy soon became 
greatly enamored of her. The fire burned, and would not be 
quenched. But bashfulness prevented the youth from making 
known his feelings until they had reached such a pitch that as he 
says, “ The boilers were about to burst.” He then opened the 
’scape pipe and let out the steam. In other words, he proposed. 
The young lady listened to his stammering through his proposal, 
something after the manner of Bud Means in the Hoosier School¬ 
master., and then quietly told him she was engaged ! Ah ! cruel 
fate !—and more cruel Kate ! 


268 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


Davy says he didn’t know what to do: 

“ This news was worse than war, pestilence, or famine,” says 
he. “ But still I knowed I could not help myself. I saw quick 
enough my cake was dough, and I tried to cool off as fast as pos¬ 
sible; but I had hardly safety pipes enough, as my love was so hot 
as mighty nigh to bust the boilers.” 

But it’s an ill wind that blows nobody good. David concluded 
he was meeting with such misfortune on account of his ignorance. 
Here he was sixteen years of age and didn’t know a letter of the 
alphabet ! He went to school, worked two days out of six to pay for 
his board and schooling, for six months. “ This,” says he, “was all 
the schooling I ever had in my life.” Not a very broad foundation 
for a future Statesman, you will say. No, it was not; but broader 
with him than six years is with a great many. He made good use 
of the time, and improved what little he gained in after years. 

At the expiration of his college course in the backwoods, the 
hero of this sketch once more concluded to try his luck upon the 
uncertain seas of femininity. He visited a neighboring family, and 
to one of the lovely misses whose name he declines to give, he 
puts the momentous question, fair and square. She receives him 
kindly, encourages his attentions, and finally accepts his proposal 
to marry. This girl was a coquette. She led her enamored 
suitor on .to within three or four days of the wedding hour, when, 
without the least warning, she gave Davy “ the slip,” and married 
another fellow. It was a terrible blow to the already wounded 
heart. His spirit was completely crushed—forty degrees below 
freezing point. He became a hermit, and did not show himself 
in society for several months. 

But it is a long lane that has no turning, and Davy’s lane was 
not to last forever. A Dutch girl put him on the track of more 
happiness (or misery, he did not know which), and the young man 
won the prize. The flower that he plucked was of Irish descent, 


DJyr CROCKETT, 


269 


very pretty, and Davy thought the sweetest of any he had met. 
They were married at the log cabin of her parents, immediately 
mounted horses, and repaired to his father’s tavern, where they 
were met by a large crowd of neighbors and friends, and all joined 
in the general frolic customary in those days. 

Thus the days of wooing and pining were over. The mellow 
radiance of the honeymoon rested upon our hero’s head. The 
culmination of boyish hopes had arrived. The hours were upon 
him when the birds sing sweetest, the flowers appear most beauti¬ 
ful, when the sun‘ sets in a flood of golden glory, and Davy 
enjoyed it. A fair young wife, a strong, muscular frame, and— 
his mother-in-law in a good humor. What more could he wish? 
So, with two cows and a calf donated by the girl’s parents, and 
fifteen dollars in cash very kindly presented by the old Quaker, 
the young folks rented some land and set to work. The bride 
could spin and weave; the bridegroom could plow and sow; the 
wife could help the husband, while the husband was ever ready to 
assist the wife; so things went on as merrily as a marriage bell. 

But the • young couple, after several years, found that high 
rent and poor crops were not making them rich very fast. They 
concluded to move. Consequently, together with Davy’s father- 
in-law, they packed all their earthly possessions upon the back of 
two colts and one horse, and removed to the Duck and Elk River 
country. Here, in Lincoln and Franklin counties, they passed 
many pleasant years, indeed, spending almost their entire married 
life within the counties mentioned. 




270 


TR'RONriERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS 


CHAPTER II. 

DISTINGUISHES HIMSELF IN WAR-FAMINE AND MUTINY IN THE 

ARMY-TERMINATION OF WAR-THE HERO ENJOYS RUSTIC 

LIFE-MARRIES AGAIN-MOVES TO ANOTHER COUNTRY- 

POLITICAL CAREER BEGUN—^JUSTICE OF PEACE-COLONEL- 

REPRESENTATIVE. 

Soon after removing to Franklin county, Tenn., the Creek 
Indians began their depredations. The hostilities called forth 
immediate action on the part of the government and citizens all 
over the country, and there was precipitated upon the nation what 
is known in history as the War of 1813 . David Crockett heard of 
the terrible butchery at Fort Mimms, and his blood was fired at 
once. Volunteers were called for. The inhabitants flocked into 
Winchester (ten miles from Crockett’s home) from far and near. 
Their families were liable to be murdered in cold blood, their 
homes destroyed, and the country ravaged by merciless savages. 
Davy shouldered his rifle, marched to Winchester, and placed 
himself in a special company under Capt. Jones, afterward 
Congressman from Tennessee. 

Crockett continued under his leadership for a while, and was 
then sent in command of a squad of men to reconnoiter. He went 
into the heart of the enemy’s country, and distinguished himself 
repeatedly by his daring and cunning. He had become the best 
shot with a rifle in the region where he lived, and possessed 


DA vr CROCKETT. 


271 


natural shrewdness in strategy surpassed only by the red adver¬ 
sary of the woods. He made forced marches, waded through 
swamps, climbed mountains, visited friendly Indians, and reported 
to the main army, under Gen. Jackson and Col. Coffer, when 
danger menaced either. 

To illustrate the honesty and kindness of heart which ever 
characterized this brave, rough soldier of the backwoods, we quote 
a little from his^own journal of this date: 

“ I turned aside to hunt, and had not gone far, when I found 
a deer that had just been killed and skinned, and his flesh was still 
warm and smoking. From this I was sure that the Indian who 
had killed it had been gone only a very few minutes; and though 
I was never much in favor of one hunter stealing from another, 
yet meat was so scarce in camp that I thought I must go in for it. 
So I just took up the deer on my horse before me, and carried it 
on till night. I could have sold it for almost any price I would 
have asked, but this was not my rule, neither in peace nor war; 
whenever I had anything and saw a fellow being suffering, I was 
more anxious to relieve him than to benefit myself. And this is 
one of the true secrets of my being a poor man to this day. But 
it is my way; and while it has often left me with an empty purse, 
which is as near the devil as anything else I have seen, yet it has 
never left my heart empty of consolation which money couldn’t 
buy—the consolation of having sometimes fed the hungry, and 
covered the naked.” 

A very amusing circumstance took place in one of the battles 
with the redskins about this time, which is well worth relating. 
Quite a large force had been concentrated under Col. Coffer, which 
was to attack an Indian village near by. The plan was to divide 
the forces equally, and have them meet at an appointed hour on 
each side of the Indian encampment. Everything worked as pre¬ 
determined, and before they were aware of it, the savages were 


272 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


completely hemmed in. They ran first one way and then another, 
totally demoralized. Finally, the squaws, seeing escape impossible, 
ran up to the soldiers and pleaded for mercy. Many of them 
would rush up to one of the whites and cling to his coat tail, 
entreating him not to kill them. Seeing seven of them around a 
single soldier, Crockett, raising his voice above the din of battle 
and wail of victims, cried: 

“The Scriptures are being fulfilled! The Scriptures are being 
fulfilled! There are seven women holding on to one man’s coat 
tail! But,” adds this comic specimen of the ge 7 ius homo, “ I be¬ 
lieve the man had on a hunting shirt instead of a coat.” 

In this same attack, forty-six of the warriors ran into a house, 
and refusing to come out at the whites’ command, were burned to 
death. After the fighting was over, some one discovered that the 
cellar under the house where the Indians had been burned, contained 
a quantity of potatoes. The soldiers being ravenously hungry, dug 
into it and secured the provisions. But the oil from the stewed car¬ 
casses above had run down upon them and “ they looked like they 
had been cooked with fat meat!” The potatoes were eaten, and 
relished, nevertheless. 

Under Old Hickory Face, as Gen. Jackson was called, the 
army marched to Fort Talladega, where they surrounded and com¬ 
pletely routed eleven hundred Indians. Davy again manifested 
great courage and skill, winning the unstinted admiration of officers 
and men. 

After the famous battle of Talladega, fought Dec. 7, 1813, 
Gen. Jackson’s forces remained on the field and waited for provi¬ 
sions. But day after day sped away, and no provisions came. The 
soldiers were well nigh starving, and proposed to the commander 
to let them return home and replenish their exchequer. Jackson, 
ever self-willed and positive, said “ No,” and he meant it. The 
sixty-day men resolved to go, anyhow. Jackson placed artillery and 


DAVr CROCKETT. 


273 


musketry in their path, so they couldn’t leave. But their minds 
were set on going, and go they did. Old Hickory Face said they 
were the queerest volunteers he ever saw. “ They would volunteer 
to go out and fight, and then when they got ready would volun¬ 
teer to go home again, in spite of the devil.” 

After replenishing his ammunition, wardrobe, and provisions, 
David Crockett returned to the scenes of conflict. He attached him¬ 
self again to Major Russell, and passed through many hardships 
and fierce fights under his leadership. Their company now 
marched on with all haste to Pensacola, where Jackson was to meet 
the British fleet. Major Russell arrived a little too late to assist in 
this victor^', but was warmly welcomed by Jackson, never¬ 
theless. 

After stopping a short time at Pensacola, Crockett was oflf 
again in search of hostile Indians, and something to eat. Not very 
much fighting was done, but suffering of the keenest character was 
experienced. Day after day did they tramp over hill and vale, 
cross rivers, wade swamps, and suffer the pangs of hunger. Pro¬ 
visions became so scarce finally that the soldiers wandered about 
almost as they pleased, seeking to find a morsel to appease the ter¬ 
rible gnawing at their stomachs. Horses died and were left by the 
wayside. Small game was met with occasionally, but only in suffi¬ 
cient quantities to excite the appetite for more. It seemed that an 
entire regiment of men would have to lie down and die of starva¬ 
tion at times. Finally, they reached the land of milk and honey; 
provisions were brought them, and the famished wretches once more 
became men and soldiers. 

It was not long before peace was concluded with the Indi¬ 
ans by Gen. Jackson, and the weary patriots returned to their 
homes. In all the war Davy Crockett had been among the most 
active and the most beloved of all. He was the best shot, the most 
skillful hunter, the wittiest in camp, and the bravest when it came 
?s 


274 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS, 


to a hand-to-hand encounter with the savages. With such quali¬ 
ties he could not but be immensely popular with his compatriots, 
valued highly by his superiors, thus fitting himself unconsciously for 
future greatness. 

Like Washington, when the country was once more at j^eace, 
and had no further need of his services, David Crockett returned to 
his modest home in Franklin Co., Tenn., where, surrounded by his 
little family, he once more rested in the sweet experiences of rustic 
life. The noble-hearted wife went about her household duties 
now, singing gaily the songs of her girlhood, supremely happy in 
the consciousness of her husband’s presence after so long a separa¬ 
tion. The day’s work ended, all would gather around the old-fash¬ 
ioned firejilace, where, with a hoy upon each knee, the bronzed sol¬ 
dier would relate some blood-curdling adventure, or amuse them 
with the tricks and j^uns of camp life. 

But the j^leasant fireside did not remain undisturbed. Death 
knocked at the door of that cabin one night, and demanded the wife 
and mother. It was a sad stroke. The helpless children clung to 
the dead mother’s remains, while the father and husband, crushed 
with sorrow, could give them no consolation. But they looked to 
Him for strength and succor in the dark hours of affliction, until 
the flood began to lessen, and sunshine once more found a crevice 
through which to flash its gladdening rays. 

Three children were left for Davy to care for. Of course he 
could not do this and attend to the active labors of frontier life, so 
he persuaded his younger brother and wife to keep house for him. 
This they did for awhile, but the need of a mother was still much 
felt. There happening to be a widow near by, with two children • 
and a small farm, Davy thought it would be the wisest course to 
unite their forces; consequently the joroposal was made, the day set, 
and the widow and widower became such no longer—they were 
married. 


DAVY CROCKETT, 


-75 


In the fall succeeding this alliance, Mr. Crockett, in company 
with three others—Frazier, Robinson, and Rich, by name—deter¬ 
mined to go on an exploring expedition. They were looking for a 
better country—a country of immortal youth perhaps, like De Leon 
of earlier days. But Crockett was not destined to find such a 
sphere of existence in this world at least, as, soon after starting out, 
he was taken violently sick with a fever. His comrades left him at 
a farmhouse down near where Tuscaloosa now stands, and con¬ 
tinued their journey. For weeks he lay lingering between life and 
death. But gradually he regained health. 

To this family, whose name was Jones, he always owed a deep 
debt of gratitude for their kindness and great hospitality. No med¬ 
icine was given him except some Bateman drops, which seemed to 
have the desired effect. In regard to this circumstance the inimita¬ 
ble Davy saysl 

“ I have been particular in giving a history of this sickness, 
not because I believe it will interest anybody now, but if I should 
be forced to take the ‘ White House,’ then it will he a good history, 
and every one will look on it as important. And I can’t, for my 
life, help laughing now, to think that when all my folks get 
around me, wanting good fat offices, how so many of them will 
say, ‘ What a good thing it was that that kind woman had a bottle 
of drops that saved President Crockett’s life—the second 
greatest and best!’ ‘ Good,’ says I, ‘my noble fellow! You take 
the postoffice, or the navy, or the war office, or, maybe, the treas¬ 
ury.’ But if I give him the treasury, there’s no devil, if I don’t 
make him agree first, to fetch back them deposits. And if it’s 
even the postoffice. I’ll make him promise to keep his money 
’count without any figuring, as that throws the whole concern 
head over heels in debt, in little or no time.” 

Sickness over, our wanderer returns to his home, where he 
finds his wife mourning him as dead. His wife receives him to 


276 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


her bosom, and the overjoyed family rejoice in the fact that “ the 
dead is alive, and the lost found.” 

But Mr. Crockett and wife concluded to take a change of 
climate, and find a new home. Consequently, the household goods 
are stowed away in one of those old-fashioned traveling ambu¬ 
lances, the children put in a close “ carry-all,” and the neighbor¬ 
hood that has known him so long, will know him no more forever. 

They traveled about eighty miles, over to Shoals Creek, in 
the new Indian purchase, where there was neither law nor order, 
and here Davy drove his stake for future greatness. The neighbors 
met, organized themselves into a corporation, and asked no assist¬ 
ance from Congress, President Jackson, or any one else. Crockett 
was chosen magistrate. The first round in the ladder! He was 
planted upon the first step of the political stairway, and, no 
doubt, like Archimedes of old, felt like crying, “ Give me a ful¬ 
crum, and I’ll move the world.” 

His description of his own ability and manner of procedure 
while in this office, gives us a fair insight into the condition of 
society and civilization during the early settling of our country. 
He could barely write his own name, nor could he read writing 
much better than he could wield the pen. For quite awhile there 
was not much need of such superfluities, as his warrants were all 
issued in “verbal writing;” but in the course of time, the Legis¬ 
lature reorganized the community according to law, and then it 
became necessary for the magistrate to fill out reports, issue regular 
warrants, etc.,—a task that came well nigh proving the straw with 
which to break the camel’s back. The constable, however, as¬ 
sisted the justice; indeed, many times making out his own warrants, 
and having Crockett sign them after the culprit was brought to 
trial. He sa3'^s, in this connection: 

“My judgments were never appealed from, and if they had 
been, they would have stuck like wax, as I gave my decisions on 


DA p-r CROCICETT. 


^11 


the principles of common justice and honesty between man and 
man, and relied on natural-born sense, and not on law-learning, to 
guide me, for I had never read a page in a law-book in all 
my life! ” 

Shortly after being regularly installed as magistrate of his 
community, David Crockett was called jipon by a certain Capt. 
Mathews, and entreated to become a candidate for the position of 
Major in a regiment that was being formed. Ever desirous of 
peace rather than war, and retirement rather than publicity, he de¬ 
clined. However, the Captain was urgent, and Crockett finally 
submitted. 

Mathews himself was a candidate for the rank of colonel, so he 
gave a great dinner, invited everybody for miles around, in order to 
pull his wires and consummate the scheme. ’Squire Crockett was, 
of course, present in full force, as jovial and witty as ever. After 
reaching the house, it was discovered that the son of Mathews was 
to be an opponent of Crockett’s. This aroused the latter’s ire con¬ 
siderably, so he drew Capt. Mathews aside, and demanded an ex¬ 
planation. The Captain said his son was his own man, had been 
placed in the field, and was going to run, but greatly feared he 
would be beaten, if Crockett remained a candidate. Davy resolved 
at once upon his course of action. He told Mathews he proposed 
to enter the arena against him, the father, for the Colonelcy. 
Mathews was delighted. He thought it a capital joke, took Davy 
back into the house, mounted a chair, and introduced his new 
political adversary to the crowd. Davy then jumped upon the 
temporary platform, made a full explanation of the circumstances 
in the case, and requested their votes. His fine humor, honest 
countenance, and recital of his previous war record, captured the 
multitude completely, and when the vote was taken, there was a 
new Colonel, and his name was Davy Crockett. 

This was his first popular victory, but it was complete and 


27S PRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


overwhelming. It gave him confidence in his powers over peo¬ 
ple. His name went abroad all over that region of country, and 
in a very short time there was no one whom the people delighted 
to talk about more than the eccentric Crockett of Shoal’s Creek. 

Of course this gave him an excellent impetus toward some¬ 
thing higher. He was soon solicited to become a candidate for the 
Legislature. Although scarcely realizing what the office meant, he 
consented, and in February, 1821, his name was announced, and 
soon after the canvass began. 

To a modern politician the story of a candidate for the Legis¬ 
lature who had never read a page of law nor a newspaper in his 
life, seems almost incredulous; but such was literally true of Col. 
Davy Crockett. He did not push himself before the people—he 
was well aware of his ignorance—but the people indorsed him with 
all his illiteracy, and he did the best that was possible. Honesty 
took the place of learning; common sense of vague theorizing, 
and native talent was admired where bombast would have been 
ignored. ^ 

The campaign was upon him, and what to do, where to go, 
when to talk, and when to keep still, were questions which could 
not be easily answered by this champion of the people’s rights. 
He concluded to run around awhile among his constituents, which 
he proceeded to do, on foot and horseback, as was customary in 
those days, visiting various sections of his district, and generally pro¬ 
ducing a favorable impression. At one gathering he met his 
opponent, a man of considerable learning and a good talker, who 
insisted on Col. Crockett’s making a speech. It was in vain to plead 
other business; the cry for “Speech! speech!” was raised, mostly by 
his opponents, who wanted to see him fail, to which he reluctantly 
responded. This was his maiden effort. Never had he thought 
about making a political talk to an assembly when he accepted the 
nomination, else the prospect would perhaps have induced a decided 


da vr CkOCKETT. 


279 

refusal. What did he know about the government ? What about 
the duties of representative? 

However, he mounted the temporary rostrum, and began. 
Who can picture his misgivings? If ignorance had only been 
bliss, ’twould have been folly to be wise; but it was not thus in his 
case. He knew his weakness, and quaked visibly before the stare 
of those upturned faces. 

He possessed a full stock of stories, which is an indispensable 
commodity for a stump speaker, so he related an anecdote with which 
to break the ice. But the ice being broken, he found himself sinking 
deeper and deeper into the waters of confusion, until, as he says, “ My 
mouth seemed to be jammed and crammed full of dry mush.” Oh, 
the misery of such an hour! But Crockett was equal to the emer¬ 
gency; he told another story! “ There was a fellow beating on the 
head of an empty barrel,” said he, “ when a traveler coming along 
asked him what he was doing that for. The 'fellow replied that 
there was some cider in that barrel a few days before, and he was 
trying to see if there was any then, but if there was he couldn’t get 
it out. I’m like that fellow. There was a little bit of a speech in 
me awhile ago,but I believe I can’t get it out.” This amused the 
crowd; he told another story, and invited them over to the stand to 
get something to drink. 

Once after this he was in pretty close quarters. The candi¬ 
dates for Governor and Congress met with him at Vernon one day, 
where speech-making was the order of exercises. Crockett was to 
be heard last, so during the other speeches he learned more about 
governmental affairs than he had ever known before. When the 
time arrived for him to entertain the crowd the hour was late, so he 
related a humorous anecdote, and dismissed the crowd. 

Thus the campaign went on, and Col. Crockett was selected 
to represent the people in the State Legislature of Tennessee. 

He made good use of his opportunities. When the first ses- 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


sion of the Legislature was over, he knew more concerning politics 
than many another who had read the papers all his life. He did 
nothing to distinguish himself at this session, except to retain his 
reputation for honesty, perseverance, and good humor. 








DA vr CROCKETT. 


281 


CHAPTER III. 

MAKES A NEW HOME—PERSISTENCE AND BRAVERY-A SECOND 

TIME CANDIDATE FOR THE LEGISLATURE IN OPPOSITION 
TO JACKSON-IS HIMSELF DEFEATED—TWO YEARS IN SPEC¬ 
ULATION-BEAR HUNTING-TAKES HIS SEAT IN CONGRESS- 

TOUR THROUGH THE NORTH. 

While at the capitol all of his earthly possessions were sud¬ 
denly swept away. A large freshet played havoc with his mill and 
distillery, which he had built, and when he returned home it was 
found that all of his other goods must be sold to pay his creditors. 
This was promptly done, greatly to the credit of this honorable 
backwoods representative, and Col. Crockett was once more adrift 
in the world without a dollar. 

He now took his young son, and in company with a young 
man of the neighborhood, emigrated again to a new country. 
This was on the Albion River, just at what point is not stated. 
Here he built a cabin, cleared a piece of ground, put in a crop of 
corn, and started back home for his family. They all repaired to 
the new home in the fall of 1823, where, with much suffering and 
want, another start was made, another foothold secured, and the 
hero of so many conflicts rested peaceably in the embrace of his 
family. 

One circumstance occurred the winter of their residence on the 
Albion River, which forcibly demonstrates the fierce determination 


282 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOI/TS. 


of David Crockett to accomplish whatever he undertook, and 
which, for bravery, ingenuity, and a disposition to obey the call of 
duty, is almost without parallel in the history of our country. 

About Christmas time he ran out of powder. The meat 
grew scarce, and it became absolutely necessary that he make a 
trip to, his brother-in-law’s, six miles distant, to secure ammuni¬ 
tion. The river had overflowed its banks until it stretched all 
over the bottoms between the two houses. But Crockett resolved 
to wade it, no matter how cold the water, nor how difflcult the 
passage. Consequently, the day before Christmas, he started out 
with his gun and a few dry clothes, to make the perilous trip. He 
waded, swam, and crossed on trees, for about two miles, and 
finally reached his brother-in-law’s house almost frozen to death. 
The next day was fearfully cold, and he was prevailed upon to 
delay his return. Another day came and the weather was keener 
than ever, but the father and husband resolved to return or die in 
the attempt. When he reached the flooded portion, everything 
was a sea of ice as far as the eye could reach. He stepped out 
boldly and walked a short distance before the ice broke and let him 
through. He then took his tomahawk, cut the ice before him, and 
waded slowly along. Of course the gun and keg of powder he 
was carrying must be kept above the water all the time, which 
was extremely difficult to do, as he would frequently go down up 
to his neck. But for two miles this brave man plodded along. 
For two miles he cut ice, struggled through it, felled saplings, and 
nearly froze himself stiff in order to get back home, where he 
feared a loved family was famishing for want of food. 

But the herculean task was finally accomplished,—dry land 
was at length sounded, and the cheerful fireside once more 
welcomed back the courageous hunter and hardy frontiersman. 

The next morning, although the snow was several inches 
deep, and the sleet rattled incessantly upon its surface. Col. 


£>Avr cadcKSTT. 


Crockett, his &6ii and the young man stopping with him, started 
out for a hunt. None of them had any particular relish for bears, 
alive, except Davy; so he took a path by himself in search of Old 
Bruin, while the others occupied themselves with “ smaller fry.” 

He was not destined to travel many miles before the hounds 
scented a bear, and finally came up to it. When the hunter saw it 
at a distance of eighty yards it looked like a huge black bull. 
Never had he beheld a bear of such enormous size. But he made 
for it without delay, until it ran up a large oak tree. It seemed a 
resting place which afforded a fair shot, and Davy’s unerring rifle 
sent a bullet crashing through its breast. Instead of tumbling, it 
only lifted its paw, and then came leisurely down the tree. 
Another shot before it reached the bottom caused it to roll the 
remainder of the way, but upon touching the ground it seized one 
of the hounds and crushed him to death. Davy first pulled out 
his tomahawk and knife and advanced to within a few feet of it, 
but discovered the monstrous beast was by no means unable to 
engage in a fierce conflict for life; so he retreated, loaded his gun, 
took another good aim, and ended the life of the huge monster. 

Col. Crockett thinks this bear must have weighed six hundred 
pounds, at least, and if so there have been few larger ones seen in 
this country. 

One of the peculiarities of early American life was the 
rapidity with which men rose from obscurity to great prominence, 
from the canebrake to a seat in the national assemblies. Nor can 
there be found a better demonstration of this feature of our politics 
than in the eventful life under consideration. The scenes in this 
drama were as checkered as could be found upon any variety stage 
of modern times—one day a backwoods hunter, the next a member 
of the legislature; one day a flat boatman, the next sitting in the 
highest seat of the nation; one day killing bears with knife and 
gun, clad in moccasins, coonskin and leggins, the next fighting as 


284 FRO^tTlERSMEAT, PIOMEERS, AnD ECOUTE. 


energetically to defeat Gen. Jackson, or startling a world by some 
brilliant stroke of genius in the capitol at Washington City. No 
wonder foreigners stand off and look with wonder and amazement 
upon such a country. No wonder royalists speak disdainfully, and 
aristocracy deprecates such a constitution as will permit all grades 
of society to be represented, and “ the greatest good to the greatest 
number” ever to be the principle which triumphs. But thus it 
has been, and thus it is, and thus may it ever be. 

Col. Crockett, in the spring of 1823, visited Jackson, his 
nearest trading point, for the purpose of trading. Here he met 
with some old war comrades, and also three candidates for the 
legislature. Some one suggested to him that he ought to come 
out as a candidate; to which he replied that his intention was to 
make a living for his family by honest labor and killing bears. 
Nothing more was thought of it until a week or two afterward a 
friend called upon him, and informed the retired statesman that his 
(Crockett’s) name was already before the people, and run he must. 
Davy considered it at first a good joke, but seeing a paper 
announcing him as a candidate, he resolved to make it more than 
a joke; he would run. A little arranging of matters at home, and 
“ the people’s man ” began the campaign. 

The other candidates concluded they would consolidate their 
forces; so two of them withdrew, and left Dr. Butler, a very able 
man and shrewd politician, in the field against Crockett. How¬ 
ever, two other independent candidates came out, and the race was 
then divided among the four. Col. Crockett’s name soon became 
known all over the representative district. Wherever he went, his 
cordial manners and witty sayings captured the masses, as was 
evinced at the polls, when the count gave the hunter-statesman 
two hundred and forty-seven votes over his competitors. 

He was returned to the Legislature from a new region of coun¬ 
try, where he had lived less than a year, without missing a session. 


BAVr CROCKETT. 


285 


He points with pride to the fact that, soon after being returned 
to the Legislature, he voted against his old commander, Gen. 
Jackson, for United States Senator, becaoise he considered the 
opponent of Jackson, Col. Williams, the more worthy of the two. 
Jackson was elected, but Crockett never regretted for a moment his 
opposition to the great chief. In fact, while he admired the ability 
of Jackson, and recognized him as one of the greatest men of 
modern times, he nevertheless took occasion frequently to oppose 
him, whenever Jackson seemed in error. 

In 1824 the people insisted upon Davy’s becoming a candidate 
for Congress, against Col. Alexander, who had made himself quite 
unpopular by his vote upon the tariff question. Crockett w'ouldn’t 
listen to the request at all for awhile, saying he knew nothing about 
national affairs scarcely, and could not fill the place. However, he 
finally consented to run, and was beaten. Tl'ke reason for this de¬ 
feat, he thinks, was the rise in the price of cotton to twenty-five 
dollars a hundred, which fact was taken advantage of by Col. 
Alexander, until the people supposed it was because of the tariff 
act. At any rate, Davy was beaten two votes in this election, and 
retired from politics for two years. 

During the period which elapsed between Col. Crockett’s de¬ 
feat in the campaign against Col. Alexander, and the time when he 
once more appeared in political battle-line, he was engaged in 
hunting, trapping, flat-boating, and almost anything at which he 
could turn an honest penny. He was an indefatigable worker; his 
hands were never idle. 

Before the season for bear-hunting had fully arrived, Davy 
concluded he would speculate a little, and built two large flat- 
boats, which he loaded with furs, meat, and other products, and 
started for New Orleans. As seemed ever to be, the case when he 
ventured into any business speculation, the trip proved anything 
byt successful; it left him financially a bankrupt again; for, after 


386 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


getting into the Mississij:)pi River, neither he nor his pilots could 
manage the crafts at all, and the first night out upon this deep, 
rolling stream, they ran into an island surrounded by heavy drift. 
Of course, there was a powerful suction at such a place, and in little 
less than no time, the two flat-boats were beneath the treacherous 
drift, and all on board barely escaped with their lives. At this 
time Crockett was pulled through a small hole in the cabin, so 
small that it literally skinned him of his clothing, but saved his 
life. The boats were never recovered, and the wo-begone mariners 
returned to their backwoods home, wiser, and it may be, better 
men for their experience. 

Then came on the bear-hunting season, in which Davy so 
much delighted. And to read his modest recitals of what would 
generally be considered the most thrilling adventures, gives one an 
idea of this man’s wonderful courage and strength. Seventeen 
bears were killed by him in one week, and one hundred and five 
in about two months’ shooting. Such results are almost without a 
parallel in the history of adventure. Yet he relates it all in a non¬ 
chalant manner, as though it were nothing more to slay one of 
these huge monsters of the forest than to shoot prairie-chickens 
where they are plenty. 

Finally, the time rolled around for another Congressional 
election. Col. Alexander was again in the field, but cotton had 
fallen to eight dollars per liundred. Crockett resolved to give him 
another chase. But where was the money to come from } He was 
a total bankrupt, but a friend appeared with all the cash necessary 
to assist in the campaign. Gen. William Arnold was also in the 
field, and the race for a seat at Washington was taken in much 
earnest. Neither of the other candidates suspected fona moment 
that Crockett would get anything more than a handful of votes. 
They ignored him on public occasions; spoke jestingly of him 
whenever his name was mentioned, and devoted all their time 





287 











































































288 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


against each other. When the election came, and the count was 
taken, Col, Davy Crockett had outstripped his competitors by 
twenty-seven hundred majority. 

A little circumstance during this campaign will serve to illus¬ 
trate the feelings with which Crockett was held by his two opponents. 
They all happened to meet at the same place, and were billed for a 
speech. Davy spoke first in his usual strain, after which the other 
two replied. Gen. Arnold spoke last, and concerning this speech 
Davy relates as follows: 

“ The General took much pains to reply to Alexander, but 
didn’t so much as let on that there was any such candidate as myself 
at all. He had been speaking for a considerable time, when a large 
flock of Guinea-fowls came very near to where he was, and set up 
the most unmerciful chattering that ever was heard. They so con¬ 
fused the General, that he made a stop, and requested that they 
might be driven away. I let him finish his speech, and then 
walking up to him, said aloud, ‘ Well, Colonel, you are the first man 
I ever saw that understood the language of fowls.’ I told him 
that he had not had the politeness to mention me in his speech, and 
that when my little friends, tlie Guinea-fowls, had come up and begun 
to holler, ‘ Crockett ! Crockett ! Crockett ! ’ he had been ungen¬ 
erous enough to stop and drive them all away. This raised a univer¬ 
sal shout among the people for me, and the General seemed mighty 
badly plagued. But he got more plagued than this at the polls in 
August.” 

In Congress Col. Crockett made himself heard and felt. He 
favored the administration during all of his first two years’ exper¬ 
ience, but finally, when it seemed that Jackson had determined to 
compel adherence and even obedience to his words, this honest, 
independent, and courageous hunter of the West dared to oppose 
him. He opposed the President’s Indian policy. He did not 
believe it right, and voted against it. Jackson’s wrath was at once 


DAVr CROCKETT. 


289 


incurred, and although the Colonel was re-elected to Congress in 
1829 by a large majority, yet the storm grew fiercer, the furnace 
of persecution waxed hotter, Jackson and his adherents resorted to 
the most hostile measures, until, when he appeared before his 
people for a third election, the atmosphere was pregnant with defeat. 

He went boldly to work, however, and in the face of foul 
venom, false reports, wealth and influence, he was again re-elected 
by a small majority. 

Col. Davy Crockett’s name had been heralded from the 
Atlantic to the Mississippi. His antic deeds, stalwart opposition to 
Jackson, and notoriously original speeches on the floor of Congress, 
had combined to give this modest backwoods’ representative a repu¬ 
tation that was national. Had some of our modern Lecture Bureaus 
been in existence at that time, Davy Crockett would have been 
besieged with offers too extravagant for belief. But in the 
absence of such opportunities for fame, and by advice of his 
physician, he determined to take a short respite from the labors of 
Congress in visiting the northern section of the country. Never 
having read scarcely any himself of the current topics found in the 
newspapers, he little imagined that his name was known outside 
the capital and his congressional district of Tennessee. Judge of 
his surprise, when, having taken a steamer at Baltimore, upon 
reaching the wharf at Philadelphia, he found a vast throng of 
people anxiously gazing in the direction of his vessel. Inquiring 
innocently of the captain what it all meant, the information was 
speedily imparted that they were waiting to catch a glimpse of the 
renowned Davy Crockett. The reception was of the most magnifi¬ 
cent character. Thousands of people followed the carriage in 
which he was driven to the hotel, where, standing upon the veranda 
he made a few remarks expressive of his great surprise, and prom¬ 
ising them a speech of more length the next day. 

At the hotel he was called upon by all the distinguished citizens 


19 


290 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


of Philadelphia, including many of national reputation. Two days 
were spent in the Quaker City. The Water Works, Navy Yard, 
Mint and other places of interest were visited, to the intense delight 
of our novice in the world’s great workshops. At the mint, seeing 
the workmen handling so much money, he asked if they never stole 
the coin. The answer was, “ No; they get used to it.” “ Well,” 
says Crockett, “ I thought that was what my parson would call 
heterodox doctrine; that the longer a man was in temptation the 
more he would not sin.” 

Being invited by the captain of a steamer to take a run up to 
New York, the Colonel set off, highly delighted with his stay in 
Philadelphia, and wondering how in the world the people ever 
knew he was coming. But his bewilderment was to be augmented 
when they should reach the docks on Manhattan Island. There 
the same sea of upturned faces as greeted him at Philadelphia, 
gazed eagerly to catch a glimpse of the renowned visitor. Here a 
committee was sent on board to formally receive him, and he was 
hurried off to the American Hotel, where a large company had 
assembled to pay their respects to him. He said it would have 
been more comfortable had he been out bear hunting, or in his old 
log cabin surrounded by his wife and children. 

While in New York the Colonel visited the principal news¬ 
paper offices, theatres, and places of interest, finally getting to Wall 
Street, where was assembled a large crowd, clamorous for a 
speech. Crockett gave them what they wanted, and returned to his 
hotel. A large crowd had assembled to partake of a bountiful re¬ 
past which had been arranged by the Whigs of the city in honor 
of their champion. Davy joined in the levee with a hearty good 
will, although, as he says: “Thinks I, they had better keep some 
of these things to eat for somebody else, for I’m sure I’m as full as 
a young cub.” 

While in the city the Colonel was introduced to Major Jack 


DA vr CROCKETT, 


291 


Downing, with whom he seemed particularly delighted; Judge 
Clayton, of Georgia; Col. Draper, Col. S. D. Jackson, Gen. Mor¬ 
ton, Hon. Albert Gallatin, Col. Webb, and others. 

Passing down Broadway on the ist day of May, the Colonel 
said it seemed to him that the city was all up and flying before some 
terrible calamity. “ Why,” said he to his companion, “ Colonel, 
what under heaven is the matter? Everybody seems to be pitching 
out their furniture, and packing it off.” It was only “moving day” 
in the great city. 

A trip to Jersey City was made, where he took part in a shoot¬ 
ing match, in which he distinguished himself, and carried off the 
prize. 

Returning to the city, the evening was spent with friends at 
the hotel, and upon the morrow the honored though untutored 
guest sailed for Boston. A very enjoyable time was experienced 
upon this short voyage. At different ports crowds were assembled, 
invitations to stop were numerous, and every attention was tendered 
aboard ship. 









292 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


CHAPTER IV. 

FETED AT BOSTON AND LOWELL-RETURNS TO THE NATIONAL 

HALLS-RECEIVES COSTLY RIFLE FROM WHIGS AT PHILA¬ 
DELPHIA-IS WELCOMED HOME-AMUSING INCIDENTS IN 

POLITICAL LIFE-OPPOSES ANDREW JACKSON. 

Arriving at Boston, the Athens of America, the cultured city 
of the new Republic, Col. Crockett was conveyed to the hand¬ 
somest “ tavern,” as he termed all hotels, that it was his j^leasure to 
visit—Tremont House. 

Of course, having always heard of the severe formality of New 
England manners, and being himself without any knowledge of 
books or etiquette, our Tennessee bear hunter expected a very cool 
reception. In this he was to be pleasantly disappointed. In no 
other part of the country, he maintained, was he received with such 
unfeigned friendship and open generosity as in Boston and vicinity. 
Invitations to dine and sup with the most aristocratic of the Com¬ 
monwealth flowed in upon him, until It was impossible to accept 
more than a small fraction of them. “ It was impossible to accept 
all of them, unless I had had the digestion of a cassowary.” 

Mr. Harding, the artist, painted his portrait and hung it in a 
conspicuous place. Gen. Davis took him to Faneuil Hall, “ the 
cradle of American liberty,” the great market house was examined, 
Roxbury’s India rubber establishment was seen, where Davy 
was much diverted at seeing feminine hands putting together 


DA vr CROCKETT. 


293 

garments without stitching. He was taken to Col. Perkins’ carpet 
factory, from thence to the navy yard at Charlestown, and finally 
to Bunker Hill. He was toasted at dinner parties, visited by dis¬ 
tinguished committees, banqueted by the young Whigs, and fairly 
carried about upon the shoulders of the enthusiastic Bostonians. 

In mentioning his visit to Col. Perkins’ blind asylum—a mag¬ 
nificent gift from this noble-hearted man—Davy Crockett mani¬ 
fests that kindliness of heart and indwelling human sympathy 
which gave him such a power with the people. He says: “ God 

never made such men to be envied, or I could begrudge him a few 
of the many assurances of gratitude which he receives from the 
poor and destitute.” 

An invitation to Harvard University was declined—it was too 
much. He feared they would get him out there and force an 
LL. D. on him, which he thought entirely too heavy for his 
shoulders. 

Several times during his travels had the Colonel attended thea¬ 
tres, and at none of them does he seem to have enjoyed the acting, 
except at the Bowery in New York, where he saw Miss Kemble 
play. At Boston he visited the Tremont Theatre, but was disap¬ 
pointed as usual. He complained of the star actress’ being a mar¬ 
ried woman, when she was acting in the role of a maiden. And 
the singing,—“ Why,” says our unappreciative auditor, “ it was not 
half up to a Mississippi boat-horn.” 

Paying a visit to Lowell, the Colonel was very much inter¬ 
ested in the large manufactories, where five thousand women were 
employed, and expressed his satisfaction that destitute women were 
thus provided with a means of subsistence. 

But the hour of departure for Washington had come. The 
Appropriation Bill had been passed, Davy’s health was renewed, and 
the voice of duty called him back to the national halls. He therefore 
took his farewell of Massachusetts, sailed to New York, stopped 


^94 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


over night, and boarded the morning train for Washington, via 
Baltimore. 

His arrival at the capitol was as novel as his description of it. 
The House was in session, and just as he stepped into the room, 
they were calling for the ayes and noes on a resolution offered hy 
Mr. Boone. 

“ Crockett of Tennessee!” called the clerk. “Aye!” answered 
a voice, and every one turned about to see, sure enough, the 
veritable Crockett, ready for business. 

After a hearty greeting by his associates, the business of the 
House was rigidly adhered to until adjournment. 

Little, indeed, did the renowned representative from Tennessee 
dream that this breaking up of Congress was to be the last ever 
witnessed by himself, but so it was to prove. The die was cast, 
the edict from “the government,” Andrew Jackson, had gone 
forth, never to be revoked until all opposers to the administration 
were buried in their political graves. 

Col. Crockett passed through Philadelphia, where he re¬ 
ceived several presents from admirers, the most appreciated of 
which was a beautiful and costly rifle, presented by the young 
Whigs of the city. This he retained to his dying hour. 

Arriving at Pittsburgh, old Capt. Stone, with whom Crockett 
was well acquainted, hurried him on board his boat, which he had 
kept waiting one day in expectation of his distinguished friend. A 
pleasant trip it proved to be down to Louisville, for whenever the 
people along the river knew of his presence on the boat, numerous 
demonstrations of admiration and curiosity were indulged in. 

It was not long before the hills of his own humble home 
began to loom up in the distance, and with quickened steps and 
joyful heart the bear hunter of the far West hurried to the bosom 
of his family. Joyful, indeed, was the meeting. The father and 
husband had returned loaded with honors, bearing many manifesta- 



MONARCH, 












































































































































































































































































































































296 PRONTIEI^SMBN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


tions of the deep regard of his countrymen; returned to cheer the 
fireside in the woods by his genial smiles, funny anecdotes, varied 
experience, and numerous presents. But the joy upon his counte¬ 
nance was soon to turn to grief—the buoyant spirits were soon to 
be crushed, nevermore to assume their wonted elasticity. 

The time had arrived for another canvass of his district. 
Several times had the people approved of his course and wisdom 
in the halls of national legislation. So he started upon this canvass, 
with Adam Hunt’s man in the field as opponent, full of hope for 
the future, which increased as the election drew near. The two 
often spoke at the same meeting, and as often did Crockett feel 
assured of his success over his competitor. 

A circumstance illustrating the condition of society in those 
parts, and the manoeuvers of opposing candidates in the “ good old 
days of our fathers,” will here prove interesting. 

Crockett and his opponent met at a place called the Cross 
Roads, where each was billed for a speech. His opponent had 
been talking some time when he arrived, and had secured the 
attention of the crowd completely, when some one cried out, 
“ There comes Crockett.” The rest then raised the cry,“Crockett! 
Crockett! A speech from Crockett!” Accordingly, Davy climbed 
upon a stump and began. He had not proceeded far before the 
patriotic auditors became thirsty, and asked for something to drink. 
So the orator descended from his dignified position, and repaired to 
the stand where “Fresh Wines and Liquors’’were to be had. 
Now it so happened that Davy had brought no money with him, 
and the bar keeper refused to let any liquor go without the cash. 
This was a crusher. His constituents began to leave him, until 
there was not a man left to console him in his predicament. Davy 
almost concluded it was a lost case, but with his ever fertile ability 
for getting out of scrapes, he shouldered his rifle and started for the 
woods. Ere long the crowd was attracted by the crack of a gun, 


DAVr CROCKETT. 


297 


and presently in came Davy with a fresh coonskin dangling over 
his shoulder. He marched straight up to the bar, and threw down 
the trophy with the expression: 

‘‘ There! Now you’ll give me something to drink, won’t 
you ? ” 

Of course the bar tender gladly accepted the coonskin, for it 
was as good as cash in those parts, and handed out a quart of his 
best. The aforementioned patriotic Americans, seeing the change 
in Crockett’s financial condition, immediately collected around him 
again, where, with stories and gin, the nail was clinched for 
Congress. 

But the worst part of the incident was to follow. After 
drinking, the speech was renewed, but soon the cry arose again 
for something to wash down the dry motions about government. 
Crockett was again compelled to climb down and repair to the 
stand. But where was the money to come from? There was the 
rub. Stepping up to the temporary bar, without the bar tender’s 
seeing him, Davy caught hold of the coonskin’s tail, which was 
protruding through a crack, and pulling out the wherewithal to 
get rum and votes, he boldly slapped it down on the counter, 
and demanded another quart. The unsuspecting proprietor 
graciously accepted the skin, and again the mob was ready for 
the speech. 

But again, and again, and again, until, Crockett vows on his 
word, ten times did he pull that identical coonskin out by the tail, 
place it upon the counter, and get a quart of whisky each time. 

This trick greatly amused the witnesses of it, and made Col. 
Crockett doubly popular where it was known. 

But time passed (a peculiar characteristic of time), and the 
election came—came like a thunderbolt to the heart and home of 
Davy Crockett. He was beaten. His fair hopes for fame and 
glory had perished. The brightness of noonday was suddenly 


298 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


turned into the blackness of midnight. It was a crash out of a 
clear sky, yet it completely overwhelmed him. Ah! Fame, thou art 
a miserable paymaster! Many have been the ambitious creatures 
of existence gleaning honey from thy blossoms, only at last fo be 
poisoned by their sweetness! 

Andrew Jackson was not to be bitterly opposed, and not re¬ 
sent. He had furnished money, according to Crockett, and influ¬ 
ence, and offered rank and every means in his power, to defeat the 
champion of the Constitution in Tennessee, and this time his efforts 
proved successful. 



DA vr CROCKETT, 


299 


CHAPTER V. 

DEPARTURE FOR TEXAS-STRANGE ADVENTURES-SHOWS TRUE 

COURAGE AND NOBILITY-RESISTS SANTA ANNA-FIGHTING 

AGAINST GREAT ODDS—HAND TO HAND CONFLICT-DIES IN 

THE CAUSE OF LIBERTY AT ALAMO. 

It was in 1835 that Col. David Crockett took leave of his 
family, and started for the far West. With a sad heart he bade 
them each farewell. His bright hopes for the future seemed all to 
have perished, and he determined to abandon the country of his 
disgrace forever. Disgrace? No, not that. No stain was upon 
his character; no charge of dishonesty had been sustained against 
him; no crime, with its hideous visage, dogged his footsteps. But 
he had failed—failed in the very hour when the sun of his glory 
seemed to be in the meridian; failed, after having struggled 
from the bottom round up to the very summit of fame; failed, when 
expectant eyes were watching with tender interest, and loving 
hearts beat quickly at thoughts of a still more brilliant career. 
It was a hard blow, but a little spark gleamed in the distance. He 
might visit the scene of conflict between Texas and Mexico, 
md there either win back lost laurels, or bravely die in defence of 
freedom. 

It would be useless, to follow him minutely as he wanders to 
the far West. Especially so, since the only account of this trip 
purporting to come from his own pen, is so obviously a fabrication, 


300 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

that it would be difficult to arrive at the true facts in the case. 
Suffice it to say that he made his way to the great Mississippi, 
crossed the “ Father of Waters,” and soon found himself in Little 
Rock, Ark. Here he meets with those who have heard of him, is 
given a banquet, and remains several days, enjoying the hospitality 
of friends. While at Little Rock he engages in a shooting-match, 
in which he comes off victor, by a little trick that may be related. 
The first shot he made was a center. It astonished the natives. 
But desiring to appear still greater in their eyes, he said: “ Pshaw! 
I can do that five times out of six.” They insisted that he should 
do it. This was perplexing, but he would do his best. So, coolly 
raising “ Betsey ” to his shoulder, he fired the second time. Search 
was made for the bullet, but it could be found nowhere—he had 
missed the entire target. Slily slipping a bullet out of his pocket, 
Davy slipped it into the hole where the other had gone, and then 
suddenly announced that the second shot had followed the first. 
This he had them prove by digging out the two bullets, which was 
evidence indisputable and overwhelming. 

In company with friends, the Colonel started on horseback 
to Greenville, a considerable distance toward Red River, where he 
expected to take a boat. After reaching the town mentioned, his 
friends left him to pursue his journey alone, and they returned 
home. He journeyed on to Washington, a small place on the 
banks of the Red River, where, according to his statement, the 
following conversation took place between him and the tavern- 
keeper : 

« Good morning, mister; I don’t ’zactly recollect your name 
now,” said the landlord. 

“ It makes no difference,” replied Davy. 

“ I think I’ve seen you somewhere.” 

“Quite likely; I’ve been there.” 

“ I knew I had, but queer I should forget your name.” 


DA vr CROCKETT. 


301 


“Yes, strange you should forget what you never knew,” says 
the Colonel. 

“ It is onaccountably strange. I have a very detentive memory 
generally. I’ve scarce ever forgot a name afore.” 

“Eh, heh!” 

“ Traveling, I presume, mister? ” 

“ Presume anything you please, sir, but don’t bother me with 
your presumptions.” 

“ O Lord, no sir, I won’t do that; I’ve no ideer of doing that. 
I suppose you’ve been West afore now?” 

“ Well, suppose I have ?” 

“ Well, I was going to say you must be pretty well—that is to 
say, you must know something about it.” 

“ Eh, heh,” says Davy. 

“ I take it you’re a married man, sir.” 

“ Take it as you please, it’s none of my business.” 

“ I conclude you have a family of children, sir.” 

“ I don’t know what reason you have to conclude that.” 

“ Oh, no reason in the world, sir; none in the world. I just 
thought I might take the liberty to make the presumption, you 
know. I take it you’re a man about my age?” 

“Eh, heh!” 

“ I take it you have money at interest, mister,” continued the 
worthy. 

“ Would it be of any particular interest to you to find out?” 

“ Oh, not at all—not the least in the world. I’m not at all in¬ 
quisitive about other people’s business. I mind my own matters; 
that’s my way.” 

By this time the Colonel was ready to mount his horse, and as 
a parting salute, he says; 

“ Any more questions, old man?” 

“ No, nothing to speak on. When are you coming back?” 


302 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS, 


“ About the time I return,” replied Crockett, and galloped off. 
But the old news-gatherer yelled after him: 

“Well, I shall look for you then. I hope you won’t fail to 
call.” 

Col. Crockett reached Fulton, on the Red River, where, after 
staying a few days, he boarded a steamboat, and started for the in¬ 
terior. Going as far as he could by water, he bought him a horse, 
and, in company with an individual whom he met on board the 
packet, he set out for the fortress of Alamo, where he was to give 
his life in the terrible struggle for liberty. 

Many hardships did this noble patriot endure before reaching 
his destination, but with his ever abundant stock of good humor 
and a lively companion, the hours glided away swiftly, and he soon 
found himself knocking at the gate of the fort for admittance. 

He and his companion were joyfully received by the com- 
mander. Col. Travis, who, with a mere handful of men, was daily 
expecting the great army of Santa Anna. Nor were they to find 
their expectations without foundation. The scouts came in every 
day with the intelligence that the great Mexican general was with¬ 
in three days’ march of the fort. There were brave hearts in that 
fort, but even to them came this intelligence like a death knell; for 
well they knew the fate of others who had fallen into the hands of 
this merciless Mexican. But everything was at once put in order; 
all ammunition and provisions were removed from the town within 
the walls, and then Col. Travis addressed the men. Said he: 

“ Boys, we are to be attacked by Santa Anna, with sixteen 
hundred men. There are only one hundred and fifty of us. Shall 
we surrender ourselves and the fortress to the Mexican dogs, or 
fight to the bitter end ?” 

“ Fight! fight! Never surrender!” cried the courageous band. 

“ Well then, fight it is. I have sent to Col. Fanning, at Goliad, for 
assistance; he may arrive in time, and he may not. But whatever may 


DAVr CROCKETT. 


3^3 


come, let us honor that old flag by shc'^ing the cowardly Mexican 
that an American soldier is not afraid to die for his country and his 
God.” 

At the expiration of the three days, Santa Anna was before 
the fort. He was too cautious to attack at once, hut prejiared for a 
siege. Skirmishing was indulged in freely, in which the Mexicans 
were invariably defeated. Finally, on the 6th day of March, 1836, 
the fortress was attacked by the entire Mexican command. They 
forced themselves over the walls, and then began and ended one of 
the bloodiest hand-to-hand conflicts that history records. The 
brave Americans, no longer able to fire, used the butt end of their 
guns, and their knives, fighting like cougars, until, pierced with 
many a gleaming blade, they fell, one after another, to rise no more. 
Only two persons out of all the inmates of the fort were spared— 
a woman by the name of Dickinson, and a negro. Among the 
gallant dead was Col. Davy Crockett, the bear-hunter, the-states¬ 
man, the soldier-patriot. 

He died as he always desired to die—fighting for freedom and 
conscience. He died, admired by many for his manly character; 
respected by more for his unchanging adherence to right, and loved 
by his countrymen for his high patriotism. He will live in the 
hearts of his fellow-citizens and upon the pages of history as a re¬ 
markable example of perseverance, courage, and nobility of nature. 
May his life be an inspiration to others born in adversity, and who 
are battling against untold obstacles, to rise above their origin. 
May the nation that he honored never forget the rewards of hon¬ 
esty and heroism in public aflTairs, nor the brilliant record and unsul¬ 
lied character of Davy Crockett! 

“Oh, thou lion-hearted warrior! 

Reck not of the after-time; 

Honor may be deemed dishonor, 

Loyalty be called a crime. 


304 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

Sleep in peace with kindred ashes 
Of the noble and the true, 

Hands that never failed their country, 

Hearts that never baseness knew. 

Sleep! and till the latest trumpet 
Wakes the dead from earth and sea, 

Freedom shall not boast a braver 
Soldier, statesman, than can we. ” 













I 








GEN. SAMUEL HOUSTON, 



306 


LIFE OF GEN. SAMUEL HOUSTON. 

SOLDIER, LAWYER, AND STATESMAN 


CHAPTER I 

TASTE FOR THE CLASSICS-ACADEMY LIFE-AMONG THE RED 

MEN-SEEKS THE MATERNAL ROOF-ENGAGES IN TEACH¬ 
ING-ANSWERS THE CALL OF HIS COUNTRY-STERLING 

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE MOTHER-DISTINGUISHES HIM¬ 
SELF AT HORSESHOE BATTLE-LIEUTENANT IN REGULAR 

ARMY-NASHVILLE AND THE LAW-IS REWARDED WITH 

PUBLIC OFFICES. 

The beginning of the present century produced a number of 
remarkable men,—not literati, not great commercial kings, but 
soldiers and statesmen. The fire of patriotism kindled in the hearts 
of America’s freemen by the Revolutionary struggle, glowed with 
unabated vigor for nearly half a century, lighting up the firmament 
ever and anon with brilliant sparks, the influence of which was 
never to die. Many of the characters suddenly brought into public 
notice, were rough-hewn and purely original in their make-up—no 
figure heads, such as are found recorded in the annals of more 
ancient nations, but men whose love of country and natural en¬ 
dowments placed them in the halls of legislation, or at the head of 

307 



3oS FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


an army. Some of these primitiv^e American champions of liberty, 
with Col. David Crockett and Gen. Jackson as representatives, 
were totally without book-knowledge or any of the refining influ¬ 
ences of school-life. They stepped to the front in districts where 
people cared nothing for education, nothing for polished manners, 
nothing for wealth; people of the primitive American backwoods 
stamp, who loved and voted for public characters of their own 
sort. Believing that the Latin adage, ^^Poeta nascitur, no 7 i 

was as true of statesmen and soldiers as of poets, whoever, 
by sheer force of brain power, naturally rose above his fellows, 
was crowned king. 

Upon the other hand, there were many cultured gentlemen, 
learned legislators, who also found a place in the halls of Congress, 
and upon the battlefield. Of this latter class was Gen. Sam 
Houston, the subject of this sketch. Not a college graduate, it is 
true, yet a man of polish and social standing, as well as a brave 
defender of freedom, and a shrewd legislator. 

He was born at a place known as Timber Ridge Church, in 
Rockbridge county, Va., March 2, 1793. His father was of that 
noble stock which fled from the Old Country, to find a refuge in the 
free forests of America. His mother was a woman of rare quali¬ 
ties—brave, virtuous, intellectual. She is said to have been of com¬ 
manding appearance, and much personal magnetism. Entering 
heartily into the patriotic struggle which took her husband first, 
and afterward her son, away from the home fireside, Mrs. Houston 
proved herself a heroine of the true type, by urging her kindred on 
to victory or death, and with her own hands assisting the cause in 
every possible manner. 

Mr. Houston was first a soldier in the ranks, and afterward 
Inspector of troops. The latter position was a dignified one, giving 
him an opportunity of developing the qualities of a commander to 
his fullest capacity. It is said that his duties were performed with 


OJ^N. SAMUkL tiOtJSTdH 


309 

such admirable skill as to bring forth the heartiest commendations 
from all the officers of Washington’s staff, and even from the great 
chief himself. 

In the year 1807 Mr. Houston died, leaving a wife and nine 
children—six boys and three girls. The emoluments of his office 
had been far too meager to lay up any store for a rainy day. In 
fact, those who took part in that great national sacrifice for free 
homes and free institutions, little cared for aught else than a scanty 
support. So, when the fell destroyer placed his ,cold hand upon 
the father, Samuel Houston, the latter, with his brothers, sisters, 
and mother, was left almost penniless. 

Mrs. Houston, with true heroic spirit, immediately prepared 
to emigrate to a country where an opportunity would offer for em¬ 
ployment, and perhaps, of gaining a competence for herself and 
family. The homestead near Lexington was sold, and the Houston 
household took up their march for Tennessee. 

It was a wild, barbarous country at that time, to which this 
Virginia family were wending their way; no schools, no society, 
no religious advantages. The screech of the panther, the bark of 
the wolf, the growl of old bruin were to be heard on every hand, 
and onslaughts by savage red men had not entirely ceased. But the 
journey was begun and completed, the die that was to mould the 
future leader of a young Republican, was cast. 

Sammy, as he was called at home, was a precocious youth. 
His schooling had been limited up to the time of his father’s death, 
six months, perhaps, covering the entire time that the boy had been 
in the school-room. He was fourteen years of age when the fertile 
banks of the Tennessee River were first seen, and with a bare six 
months’ training under a crude Virginia teacher, it seemed that the 
future Statesman’s education was to end. However, he was per¬ 
mitted to attend an academy in Eastern Tennessee for a period of 
several months, and it was here that the thirst for learning which 


310 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

afterward distinguished him from most of his cotemporaries, first 
manifested itself. The classics translated, were his favorite reading, 
while mathematics became exceedingly distasteful to him. Homer’s 
Iliad, and Odyssey, Virgil’s HEneid and Plato’s writings possessed 
unbounded charms for the young man. The very character of 
these books is enough to convince any one of the high type of mind 
of one who could take such delight in them without previous 
mental discipline. Desiring to delve further into the mysteries of 
those ancient governments, Samuel insisted upon being taught 
Latin. This, either because the principal of the academy knew 
nothing of the language, or for some other reason, was denied the 
ambitious youth, whereupon he is said to have thrown down his 
translation and exclaimed: “ Then I’ll not recite in this translation 
again while I live,” and, as far as known, he never did. 

The independent character of young Houston is well illustrated 
by an incident of his early life, related by a recent biographer: 

His older brother becoming somewhat tyrannical, Sammy 
suddenly left home and took up his abode with the Indians. His 
bright face, winning manners and strong frame at once brought 
him into notice with the savages, who readily offered him a home 
in their wigwams as long as he cared to remain. The importunities 
of his relatives were insufficient to draw the lad from his savage 
home until want of clothing compelled a return to his mother. 

It was shortly after this experience that our hero conceived 
the idea of “ teaching the young idea how to sprout.” Select schools 
were the only ones then to be found. Samuel therefore started out 
with his “ subscription list,” and secured enough pupils at eight 
dollars per capita to enlarge his exchequer considerably. 

Samuel Houston was now eighteen years of age. A period 
when the shackles of childhood are being discarded, and the liberty 
of manhood begins to assert itself. A time when young Americas 
are impatiently waiting for some adventurous scheme to present 


GEN. SAMUEL HOUSTON. 


3 ” 


itself, whereby their names may be heralded to the four quarters of 
the globe, and honor, riches, or social grandeur suddenly open to 
their magic touch. As this young Tennesseean stood with folded 
arms at the close of his school, gazing into the unknown future, 
the sound of a bugle startled him from his revery. It was the war 
cry of 1813. A recuiting officer had entered the town. Who would 
volunteer? A hundred or more of the brave pioneers readily 
offered their services, not last of whom was Samuel Houston. 

It was considered by most of the people to be a thankless task 
to fight ’gainst savage Indians for a scanty support, but patriots 
seldom look at the sacrifice. Mrs. Houston is said to have again 
manifested that noble spirit which should give her a place among 
the heroines of the world. The Grecian mother used to tell her 
son, when going to battle, to come back either with his shield or 
upon it—so Mrs Houston said to Samuel as he took a last farewell 
before leaving; 

“There, my son, take this musket, and never disgrace it; for re¬ 
member, I had rather all my sons should fill one honorable grave 
than that one of them should turn his back to save his life. Go, 
and remember, too, that while the door of my cottage is open to 
brave men, it is eternally shut against cowards.” 

It did not take long for his superior officers to recognize young 
Houston’s ability. Before they had reached Fort Hampton, in 
Alabama, he was promoted to sergeant, and immediately after the 
arrival of his regiment at the fort, he was made an ensign. His 
aptness for military tactics was remarkable. Such was his pro¬ 
ficiency in a few months after enlisting, that he was sent to Knox¬ 
ville to drill another regiment. Frequently after this he performed 
a similar duty, always acquitting himself admirably, as had his 
father before him. 

Finally he was ordered, with his regiment, to Fort Williams, 
where preparations were being made for the important battle of 


312 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

Horseshoe. We have given the particulars of this notorious strug¬ 
gle in another part of this work, hence to particularize here is un¬ 
necessary. The great chief, Jackson, was in command of the white 
forces, with about two thousand men, while a brother of Tecum- 
seh, with a number of other noted chiefs, had marshaled more than 
a thousand choice reds for the last grand conflict. No Indian battle 
on record surpasses that of Horseshoe in point of numbers and 
bloodshed. A mighty impetus was given the savages by their 
prophets telling them that the Great Spirit would assist in routing 
the enemy, did the Indians only prove themselves worthy of such 
assistance. Hence every precaution was taken to fortify their en¬ 
campment, and for many hours it seemed decidedly doubtful which 
way the tide of battle would turn. But Andrew Jackson, with his 
courageous pioneers, was more than a match for the wily savage. 
One after another the embankments and barricades were stormed, 
until the last was taken, and every warrior in sight was dead or 
dying upon the fallen ramparts of the Cherokee Nation. 

Samuel Houston twice distinguished himself in this combat. 
As soon as Jackson had given the order to charge upon the works, 
two brave soldiers leaped upon them, and called for their compan¬ 
ions to follow. The first was Major Montgomery, who had 
scarcely reached his elevated position when a rifle ball laid him 
low, never to rise again. The second was Ensign Houston. 
Scarcely had he scaled the wall before a barbed arrow struck his 
thigh, penetrating so deeply that it was almost Impossible to extri¬ 
cate it. Not noticing the arrow, apparently, he called to his men 
to follow where he led, and leaped into the yelling, painted mass. 
In a short time a space was cleared about the brave little band, 
when Houston called to his Lieutenant to extract the arrow. Again 
and again did the officer pull in a vain endeavor to draw the 
weapon from his superior’s thigh. Discouraged, he begged Houston 
to repair to the surgeon. Instead, Houston drew his sword, and said; 


GEN. SAMUEL HOUSTON. 


3^3 


“Draw it out! Pull with all your might and if you fail, I’ll 
smite you with this sword.” 

The Lieutenant took a firm hold, and with all his power jerked 
the barbed instrument from the quivering flesh, leaving a terrible 
wound behind. The blood gushed out profusely, and Houston, 
fearing the loss of blood, leaped over the wall, ran up to the sur¬ 
geon, and ordered him to quench the flow, that he might return to 
the scene of conflict. Jackson came up at that moment, and ordered 
the wounded man to the rear. Houston begged that he might con¬ 
tinue the fight. Jackson was immovable. “No man shall fight 
with such a thigh as that,” said he. Finding he could not persuade 
his commander to acquiesce, Houston, as soon as the blood stopped 
flowing, leaped over the walls again, and remained until the last 
Indian was down. 

It was during this engagement, also, that Ensign Houston re¬ 
ceived almost a mortal wound. Attempting to lead his division 
against a strongly fortified point in the ramparts, he was shot 
through the right arm twice, which well nigh severed the limb 
from the body. Little hope of his recovery was entertained for 
many weeks. Finally, he so far convalesced as to be able to 
travel. A furlough was given, which he made use of until the 
glad tidings of peace reached his ears. Various parts of the 
country had been visited by the invalid, yet his physical condition 
was little improved. One of the balls had been extracted, but the 
surgeon considered it hazardous to attempt a further probing. 

After the news of New Orleans’ victory reached young 
Houston, he, in company with a young man by the name of White 
(afterward Gov. White of Louisiana), set out for the Southern 
metropolis in a skiff. Arriving at the city, the wounded soldier 
was obliged to again have an operation performed upon his arm. 
It was severe, and for awhile his life was suspended by a very slender 
thread, but, rallying from the operation, he set sail for New York, 


3H 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


M(Slith after month passed drearily away, during which time 
Houston visited Knoxville, Tenn., and finally placed himself under 
a physician’s care in that city, who brought him out from the 
atmosphere of the grave, and made him able once more to do 
service for his country. 

Shortly after his partial recovery. President Jackson urged 
Houston to accept a position as peacemaker between the whites 
and Cherokee Indians. He was also made a lieutenant in the 
regular army. This position, however, he did not hold long, on 
account of some reports that were started against him. He had 
made some enemies among negro smugglers, who in turn circulated 
false and slanderous stories regarding the young officer. This 
Houston could not brook, as his motives had been the purest, his 
lo3^alty to government the only reason for divulging what he knew 
regarding this nefarious traffic. So, finding that public office 
brought more sorrow than joy, more ill will than good, he resigned 
his position, and took up a law course in the city of Nashville. 

Hon. James Trimble, in whose office Samuel Houston began 
the study of law, said to him: 

“ If you study diligently, and learn rapidly, in one year and a 
half you may be admitted to the bar of Tennessee.” 

This might have seemed a very short time to Mr. Trimble, 
but to a young, ambitious, impatient genius like Houston, it seemed 
far too long a time to wait for glory. He was now twent3'-five 
years of age, with very little mone3^, and no means of support until 
he could get his first law3^er’s fee. So, with a determination to 
make as short work of it as possible, he threw all his energy into 
the mastering of Blackstone and the remainder of the course. 

Not many minds are capable of “ devouring ” books rapidly, 
and retaining what they take in. Very many young men have at¬ 
tempted that feat, only to find, at the end of their labor, that their 
heads are filled with a confused mass of theories, with no power to 


GEN. SAMUEL HOUSTON 


315 

^Pply them. Patrick Henry, however, could read law six-weeks, 
and pass a creditable examination; Galileo could read over the 
demonstrations and deductions of Euclid, and comprehend them 
fully without further notice; Shakespere must have been able to 
grasp all manner of thought at a single comprehensive sweep of 
his mighty intellect. So Samuel Houston, while not equal to these 
in mental caliber, yet was capable of mastering the entire list of 
books laid down by Mr. Trimble, in six months^ His examination 
was brilliant indeed. No one who had attempted admission for 
many a year could show such a record. That of itself gave tlie 
newly-fledged lawyer a prominence, which, once gained, was 
never lost. 

Lebanon, Tenn., was the place where first appeared the sliingle 
of “ Samuel Houston, Attorney at Law.” Here he immediately 
received more than his share of attention. 

He became the favorite of Lebanon; soon made valuable 
acquaintances, and by a streak of good fortune which seemed to be 
following him, was shortly appointed Adjutant General of the 
State. Not long after his appointment to this office, the people 
elected him District Attorney of Davidson District. 

Thus it appeared that nature had certainly favored one of her 
children with such qualities as fitted him for the highest positions 
among his fellows, without any great effort on his part to gain it. 
Yet, were we made acquainted with the facts as they were, it would 
undoubtedly be manifest that untiring industry and sleepless hours 
contributed very materially toward making the lawyer capable, in 
the fullest sense of that word, for the Colonelcy, the Colonel for 
the District Attorneyship, and the District Attorney for still higher 
honors. 



3i6 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


CHAPTER II. 

AS MAJOR GENERAL-TWICE SENT TO CONGRESS-APPOINTED 

GOVERNOR OF TENNESSEE -MARRIES-CLOUDS ON THE 

HORIZON OF DOMESTIC LIFE-DEPARTURE OF THE BRIDE- 

POLITICAL DISCORD—RESIGNS THE GUBERNATORIAL OFFICE— 

REPAIRS TO HIS INDIAN FRIENDS-RECALLED TO PUBLIC 

DUTY-PERSONAL COMBAT-VICTORIOUS-AN HONORABLE 

ACQUITTAL. 

When only twenty-eight years of age, Col. Houston was made 
a Major General. This was conferred upon him in token of re¬ 
gard for his services in the war of 1812, as well as for his eminent 
fitness for the position. In fact, should an emergency arise, no man 
in the country could be secured better fitted to treat with the Indians 
than Houston. His early association with them, and constant inter- 
course afterward, had given him a knowledge of their character 
and a power to govern them possessed by no other man in public 
life at that time. 

Two years after his appointment to the last-named office, his 
friends urged him to offer his name for Congress. Although shun- 
ning publicity, naturally the General permitted the people to ex¬ 
press their appreciation at the ballot-box, which was done in a 
magnificent manner. Nor were they satisfied with having him in 
Congress a single term, but re-elected him. As soon as the latter 
term of office had expired, Gen. Houston’s name was presented to 



3^7 


BUFFALO HUNTING. 



























































































































































































































































































































































































































































































3'8 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS 

the people for Governor, The masses as well as “the royalty” 
loved to honor this man. An almost unanimous vote placed him 
in the Gubernatorial chair of Tennessee. 

This election occurred in 1827. Up to this time his sun of 
glory had been constantly rising, while not a cloud ever had dark¬ 
ened its splendor. It was now almost upon the meridian. Its full, 
bright glow was seen and felt all over the West. But very few in 
this world of mists and storm-clouds can live from morn till eve 
unobscured by some dark phantom. Gen. Sam. Houston’s brilliant 
career was to be suddenly eclipsed by a circumstance which usually 
adds to the luster of one’s fame. 

Two years after his election as Governor, being then thirty 
years of age—handsome, fascinating in manner, the people’s favor¬ 
ite, his society courted by the most distinguished of the land—Gen. 
Houston wooed and won one of the fair daughters of Tennessee. 
The young bride was intelligent, beautiful, and wealthy. Certainly 
a more propitious outlook never was seen by voyagers upon the un¬ 
certain sea of matrimony. But scarcely had the honeymoon ended 
ere a billow of awful magnitude swept into the palatial residence, 
carrying with it the bride, and leaving the Governor. What that 
billow was is not known. Many conjectures have been given— 
many accusations made—but still the real cause of the separation of 
Gov. Sam Houston and his wife has never been told. Suffice it to 
say that the lady withdrew from the fireside she had so recently 
blessed by her presence, to her father’s home, where, we believe, 
she ever after dwelt. 

The blow was a tremendous one to Tennessee’s Governor. 
Not only did the grief fall upon him in his domestic circle, but the 
report of the separation caused a loss of confidence among his con¬ 
stituents. Politicians saw at once an opportunity for self-elevation. 
They raised the cry of dishonor, of treachery, and what not. 

Gov. Houston’s proud spirit could not brook the calumny and 


GEN, SAMUEL HOUSTON, 


319 


odium that were heaped upon him. His heart was crushed—his 
ambition gone. In this condition of heart and mind he resolved to 
withdraw from the scenes of his former prosperity and present 
adversity. He never had really desired to become a target in so 
elevated a position, and now that the poisonous arrows of suspicion 
and hatred were flying thick and fast about his head, it was deemed 
far easier, and pleasanter, and more honorable to leave the combat 
to those who loved it, since it was touching so delicate a subject, 
and seek peace in some Western clime. Accordingly, the brilliant, 
the courageous, the gallant, the cultured young Governor of 
Tennessee resigned his position, took an affectionate farewell of his 
many friends, and sought a refuge among the Indian nations of 
Arkansas. 

An old chief by the name of Oolootcka^hy whom Houston had 
been adopted when roving among the Indians in childhood, was 
living near the Arkansas Falls, not far from Fort Smith. Thither 
the ex-Governor repaired. After a weary voyage the steamboat 
threw out her stage jolank at the old chief’s residence, where stood 
the latter, surrounded with a score of his braves. News had reached 
him of Houston’s approach. In fact, the latter had not failed to 
have communication at intervals with his adopted parent through 
all the shifting scenes of his life. Having started on this journey 
he had sent word on to Oolooteka of his coming. 

Any one who imagines the Indian heart to be devoid of 
affection might have been thoroughly convinced to the contrary, 
had they witnessed the reception of Samuel Houston by this chief 
of the Cherokees. Scarcely had the boat landed, and the dis¬ 
tinguished guest reached the shore, before he was caught in the arms 
of his savage friend, and showered with affectionate words and 
expressions. 

“ Many summers have come and gone,” said Oolooteka, “my 
son, since my heart was made glad by your bright face, but I have 


320 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS, 


never forgotten you. I have heard of you and from you, and have 
rejoiced in your good fortune, and now weep in your misfortune. 
They tell me you have left the whites to live with me. ’Tis well. 
We will love to have your counsels. We will love to be guided by 
your wisdom. You shall have a warm place in my heart and the 
hearts of all my warriors, because you have always been a friend to 
the red man, and never deceived us like many of the whites. My 
wigwam shall be your home. You may have the fairest of our 
squaws for vour wife, and the Great Spirit will be with you and 
us while together.” 

For three years did this exiled political genius remain with 
his Indian friends. For three years did he try to forget the dark 
and the bright, the bitter and the sweet of his recent career. The 
ties of friendship between him and the semi-civilized savages grew 
stronger and stronger. His word with them had more force than 
the great Oolooteka’s himself; while lessons were being learned by 
Houston which were to prove of inestimable value in after years. 

It finally became necessary, however, for him to again visit the 
homes of civilization. He was called to Washington by President 
Jackson to testify regarding certain corruptions existing among the 
trading posts of the West. Indeed, Sam Houston was about the 
first man to raise his voice against that outrageous traffic in public 
lands carried on at that day by Indian agents. He learned how the 
government had bought the original joossessions of the Cherokees 
upon the Arkansas, paying the Indians twenty-eight dollars each 
to vacate. This was of course to be paid in government jDaper. 
The agents circulated the report among the savages that the certifi¬ 
cates would never be paid, and that the best way would be for the 
latter to take whatever they could get. Of course whiskey, and 
powder, and guns were the staple articles of exchange. These the 
Indians readily accepted in preference to the government certifi¬ 
cates. Of course the agents soon had many of these papers in their 


GEN. SAMUEL HOUSTON^. 


321 


possession, and were reaping a golden harvest. Gen. Houston, who 
despised any attempt to defraud his country, immediately reported 
matters to Jackson, and five of these respectable leeches were re¬ 
lieved of their positions. 

This circumstance, bringing upon the young man the bitter 
persecution of the discharged agents and their friends, together 
with the fact that he was the staunch supporter of the old chief in 
the White House, created a storm of opposition which had been 
unprecedented even in his eventful life. Charges of fraud in hand¬ 
ling public money were brought against him while in the capital, 
but to no avail. Finally, a rampant politician from Ohio attacked 
Jackson, on the ground that he was a friend of “ the vagabond 
Houston.” This the brave soldier and honest statesman, upon 
whose character there had never been a blemish proven, deter¬ 
mined to resent. He announced to friends that he proposed meeting 
the Ohio demagogue personally, and settling their matters at once. 
This was noised abroad, so that when one evening Gen. Houston 
was walking along the street, unarmed, this fiery opponent came 
up to him, with evident designs upon his person. 

“As soon as Houston recognized his antagonist, through the 
moonlight,” says one who witnessed the scene, “he asked him if 

his name was-, of Ohio. The answer had no sooner escaped 

his lips, than Houston, who knew he had no time to lose, since he 
was unarmed, leveled him to the ground, and shivered his hickory 
cane over his head. In the meantime he had snapped a pistol at 
Houston, but it missed fire, or he had been a dead man, for it was 
held to his breast! Houston spared his life, and the politician 
crawled off to his bed, which he kept some days.” 

The flogging received by this particular opponent to Gen. 
Houston, created a great sensation. Enemies called the latter a 
pugilist, a game cock, a Western savage, ready to devour the in¬ 
nocent at the least provocation. Friends could but chuckle over 


21 



322 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


the result of the combat, especially since it had been provoked by 
the vanquished party. The Ohio man himself, as soon as able to 
arise from his bed, did so in all the dignity of an abused child of the 
government—one who had been persecuted for political righteous¬ 
ness’ sake. He immediately instituted suit against Houston. A 
member of the House of Representatives had been waylaid upon 
the public highway, and brutally assailed, for having raised his 
voice in debate against the President and his clique. That was the 
accusation. Houston was summoned before the House, and an en¬ 
tire month did this trial continue. Nothing like it, before or since, 
has ever occurred in the halls of Congress. 

Of course it was impossible to find anything criminal against 
the defense; indeed, a strict party vote decided that he should be 
reprimanded by the Chair, and then liberated. The Speaker of the 
House gave a very mild rebuke, which was considered a complete 
vindication for Houston. 

But the war of opposition and persecution was now at fever 
heat. Perhaps political prejudices never ran so high, in all the 
history of the American Republic, as during Jackson’s administra¬ 
tion. There was no neutral nor temperate ground. Every public 
or private citizen must be pro or con Jackson. Hence, when 
Houston clung to the old General with such tenacity, against him 
was brought to bear the venom of half the population. Other 
charges were preferred against him. Week after week was he 
kept at the capital, defending himself against this calumny. But 
every effort to prove his dishonesty, or to sustain a charge, utterly 
failed. He came ofF“ more than conqueror.” 

Finally, when the last acquittal was given, and peace had ap¬ 
parently settled over his career again, he turned his face to his 
home among the uncivilized nations of the West. 

Gen. Jackson requested Houston to visit the Comanche In¬ 
dians surrounding San Antonio, Tex., and, if possible, bring about 


GEN. SAMUEL HOUSTON. 


323 

friendly relations between them and the government. It was a 
very important mission to be sent upon, as the safety of the entire 
frontier depended very largely upon the feelings of the hostile 
Comanches. But if any man, from the Rockies to the Atlantic, 
could influence the red men, Gen. Sam Houston would be that 
man. Accordingly, solely in the interest of his country, he set out 
upon the hazardous and uncertain journey into the wilds of Texas. 
The j^eople of that province everywhere greeted him with enthu¬ 
siasm, and seemed highly pleased over such a distinguished and 
worthy visitor within their borders. 

The trip to San Antonio was finally accomplished—the 
Indians treated with satisfactorily, and Houston started on his 
return home. 

At Nacogdoches, Texas, the people were clamorous in their 
invitations to have him remain and lead in the great political 
revolution that was then being contemplated. Houston, liking the 
appearance of the country, and pleased with the people, told them 
he would return and take up his abode with them. Proceeding on 
his journey, he thought little about his future home until he 
reached New Orleans. Here his report to the President was 
mailed, and the future statesman of the New Republic turned his 
face toward the grassy plains so recently crossed. 

It was a great moment in the life of this man when he 
decided to locate at Nacogdoches. Texas was just beginning its 
metamorphosis. Mexican tyranny without law, had become 
intolerable. The country was fast being settled by free born 
Americans, who would brook no monarchical government. Their 
Constitution of 1824 gave them liberties, but these liberties had 
been totally ignored, and now Santa Anna was struggling to get 
the reins of government into his own hands, thereby becoming a 
despot of the bluest blood. 

A convention was talked of which would frame a State 


324 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

Constitution in accordance with the feelings of the people. Nor 
was it long ere the time and place of meeting was arranged for 
such an assembly. The ist of April, 1833, was set apart as the 
time for the meeting of that assembly. It was just previous to this 
time that Houston had expressed his intention of locating at 
Nacogdoches. So, while on his way toward New Orleans, the 
citizens met at the polls and elected him as one of the delegates. 

It was to be a great honor in after years, but fraught with 
heavy responsibility then. Men were required to have nerve and 
brain and moral principle to draft an article of whole or partial 
independence in the face of such a man as Santa Anna. But 
draft it they did, similar in sentiment to many parts of the great 
national declaration, yet suited to the particular state of things then 
existing. Sam Houston was one of the prime factors of that body. 
His excellent judgment, convincing logic, and irresistible eloquence 
gave him a prominence second only to Austin himself. 

An illustration of his power in this primitive assembly of fifty 
legislators is seen in connection with the banking question which 
arose during their deliberations. 

Of course as staunch a friend of Jackson as was Houston could 
have but one opinion about banks. Every member of the conven¬ 
tion, it seems, was in favor of granting the privilege of establish¬ 
ing these money markets, but Houston. Forty-nine against one! 
Many would have considered it a hopeless case, but not so 
Houston. He laid open before his colleagues the entire question; 
showed the dangers in a civilized and well-organized country; 
pictured the weakness of the system, and the opportunities for 
corruption in an infantile State like theirs, until a clause was finally 
inserted striking out, for ninety-nine years, the possibilitv of 
establishing banks in the State. 

It would be interesting, did space permit, to give the details 
of that revolution which the people of Texas entered into. It was 


GEN. SAMUEL HOUSTON. 


325 

by no means the intention of the people, as voiced through the 
assembly of San Felipe De Austin, in April, 1833, to secede from 
the Central Government at Mexico. They desired merely to 
return to the provisions of the constitution given them in 1824. 
Consequently, Austin visited the capital, presented his case to 
Santa Anna, and that ambitious despot threw him into prison. 
For some time the people did not know what had become of their 
magnanimous leader. When it was learned what Santa Anna had 
done, the determination to rebel first settled upon them. 

Nothing, however, of an aggressive nature was undertaken 
until 1835, when Gen. Santa Anna ordered every citizen of the 
entire Republic (? ) to deliver up his rifle to the soldiers. This 
of course created great consternation. It would leave many 
families almost destitute of any means of support—others would be 
exposed to wild beasts and Indians, with no adequate defence. 
The people said. No. The Mexican attempted to seize the 
weapons. A force marched up to Gonzales, capital of De Witt’s 
Colony, and seized a piece of artillery belonging to the citizens. 
The news of this spread like wild fire through the colony, and in 
a little while Gen. Austin himself arrived ready for defence. 
Several hundred Texans rallied to his standard, and the Mexican 
dragoons were soon flying for safety. 

This was the first engagement of that lengthy struggle which 
finally terminated in Texan liberty. Gen. Austin was immediately 
elected General of the forces, while another council was called to 
determine the course to be pursued. Samuel Houston was a mem¬ 
ber of that council. 

They framed a Declaration of Independence. At first a reso¬ 
lution was passed making it an absolute independence. This 
Houston considered an unwise move just then. It was therefore 
reconsidered, and provisions of respect for the Central Government 
inserted. 


326 PROMTIERSMBN, RIOI^EERS, AND SCOt/TS. 


CHAPTER III. 

COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF OF THE TEXAN FORCES-FORT ALAMO 

TAKEN, AND INMATES MASSACRED-LEADS TEXAN ARMY 

AGAINST THE MEXICANS-DESTROYS THE ENTIRE FORCE 

UNDER SANTA ANNA-OBTAINS LARGE SPOILS—VALUES 

HONOR ALONE. 

Since the defeat of the Mexican dragoons at Gonzales, the war 
cry had reached every nook and hamlet in the province of Texas 
and Mexico proper. It was deemed necessary to form a separate 
government for the time being, at least. Accordingly a Governor, 
Lieut.-Governor and other officers of State were elected, whose 
powers were to be somewhat restricted by a council, consist¬ 
ing of one delegate from each municipality. This council immedi¬ 
ately made Gen. Sam Houston Commander-in-Chief of the Texan 
army. Although fully understanding the many privations and vast 
responsibility which would be laid upon him, yet believing it his 
duty to assist, with his military skill, in the liberation of this fail- 
land, Houston accepted the position, and began at once the work of 
organization. 

Men had been sent to the United States for soldiers and money, 
but Houston had little hope of their success. He issued a procla¬ 
mation, calling for five thousand volunteers. This was responded 
to from all parts of the province. It was not long before quite an 
army was organized and ready for action. 


GEN. SAMUEL HOUSTON. 


3^7 


It will be impossible here to recount all the battles, and relate 
all the experiences of this struggle. Suffice to say that Gen. 
Houston showed consummate skill in the arrangement of his forces; 
and had it not been for political demagogues who infest every country 
and, unfortunately, were not wanting in the Texan council, the 
independence of that country would have been gained much 
quicker than it was. Some members of the council, becoming 
jealous of Houston’s popularity, endeavored to crush him, and 
indeed succeeded in creating dissension among the officers. His 
orders were disregarded, his authority denied, his command virtu¬ 
ally limited to the troops under his immediate supervision. 

The original council was disbanded finally, and another 
elected. By this second body Gen. Houston was again put in 
charge of the entire army, which position he at first declined to 
accept. When it was rumored throughout the province and among 
the troops that their intrepid leader would not serve in the capacity 
of commander-in-chief, an almost universal gloom settled upon 
every one. Even those who had opposed him knew full well there 
was not another man in all Texas so gifted, so patriotic, so unselfish, 
so brave, who could strike the shackles of slavery from Texan 
limbs and lead on to victory. Entreaties came into the General 
thick and fast. The government promised hearty support; the 
soldiery pledged themselves to do and die by his side. Succumbing 
at last to what seemed to be an imperative call of duty, and believing 
fully that God himself would use him in the liberation of a great 
people, the General sent in his acceptance. 

He now began the unprecedented task of driving a foreign foe, 
relentless and bold, numbering many thousands, from his country, 
with a mere handful of men, and no money. Indeed, while the ink 
with which his letter of acceptance was written was scarcely dry, a 
messenger came into the capital, with the exciting news regarding 
Col. Travis at the Alamo. The messenger bore a letter from the 


328 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


heroic Colonel, which told or Santa Anna’s presence, with more 
than a thousand troops; that less than two hundred brave Texans 
were ready to give their life’s blood in defence of the fortress; but 
imploring the council, in the name of Heaven and human liberty, to 
send reinforcements before it was too late. 

The council was thrown into the intensest excitement. The 
majority would have adjourned for the purpose of going to the 
rescue at once, had it not been for the coolness of Houston, who 
took the floor, and in one of the most remarkable speeches on record 
convinced them of the folly of such a course, promising himself to 
gather a force for the emergency without delay. 

Scarcely waiting till he finished the last sentence, the General 
stalked from the assembly room, mounted his faithful steed, and, 
with three or four companions, set out for the scene of battle. 

Those who have read the history of the siege and defense 
of the Fortress of Alamo, need not be told that Houston was too 
late. The fate of the noble band, among whom were Davy 
Crockett, Col. Travis, and others known in history and biography, 
was being sealed even while the message was being read before the 
council. Santa Anna himself, with an insatiate thirst for blood 
equal only to that of a barbarian, led the final attack against the 
little garrison. Almost every man, woman, and child within those 
walls fell before the murderous weapons of the Mexicans. Only 
Mrs. Dickinson and child, together with an old negro, were spared 
—spared to tell the horrible story to their friends, and carry an 
offer of pardon to all other Texans who would surrender. Human 
history scarcely relates a more heartless and bloodthirsty massacre 
than that of Fort Alamo. But, thanks to a just God, and the 
heroism of as brave a General as the sun ever shone upon, retribu¬ 
tion, swift and terrible, was to be visited upon the perpetrators of 
the foul deed. 

When Houston arrived at Gonzalez, whither he had repaired 



FIRST STEAMBOAT ON THE RIO GRANDE. 


329 






















33 <^ FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


to take charge of the militia then gathering, he found about four 
hundred men assembled. With these he took up the retreat before 
Santa Anna, who was bent upon sweeping the entire country. 
Dispatches were sent to Col. Fannin, who was in charge of troops 
in another part of the territory, to meet him at a junction on the 
Guadaloiipe. This order was peremptorily set aside by the Colonel, 
he maintaining that it would be his best move not to move—that 
Goliad could be defended against all the Mexicans they would be 
able to bring up. 

Thus left with only about five hundred troops in all, the 
“ Commander-in-Chief of the Armies” cautiously retreated from 
one point to another. Hopes were entertained by him that the 
Council would get reinforcements from some source, so that he 
might resist Santa Anna with a thousand men, at least. The 
latter’s army now was something over two thousand. 

The reader, perhaps, is somewhat acquainted with that me¬ 
morable march of the Mexican tyrant; how, his army arrayed in 
three large divisions, he swept across Texas, carrying death and 
destruction on every hand. How Gonzalez, New Washington, 
Goliad, and San Felipe were reduced to ashes. How the Texan 
government, in dismay, fled from one point to another, being 
unable to offer protection to a single household. Women and chil¬ 
dren were outraged and murdered, homes destroyed, stock confis¬ 
cated, towns burned, the high hand of carnage reigned supreme. 

In the meantime, the Secretary of War, Rusk, arrived at 
Houston’s camp, and the two determined upon opposing the further 
advancement of the enemy, at all hazards. The Texans were 
anxious for fight. Reared to hardships, and counting life not very 
dear, they longed for an opportunity to show the Mexican greasers 
what a few brave men could do. Houston learned all he could of 
Santa Anna’s army—its numbers, its arrangement, and whither it 
was going—and concluded to strike the enemy about the time they 


GEN. SAMUEL HOUSTON. 


331 


would be crossing the San Jacinto River, if possible. Forced 
marches were made through swamps, across prairies, and over 
hills, until the Bay of San Jacinto was reached. The scouts now 
brought in the intelligence that the Mexicans were only a few 
miles off, and heading directly for the stream. This was welcome 
news to the eager Texans. Before reaching the bayou, however, 
Gen. Houston had made a speech to his troops, which is reported 
to be the most stirring, fiery eloquence to which they ever listened. 

“Boys!” said this daring leader and patriot, “ fight for your 
wives, your sisters, your mothers. Fight in the holy names of 
Liberty and Humanity. Remeynbcr the Alamo! Remejnber the 
brave hearts that j)erished there! ” 

Remember the Alamo !'''* was the response from every Texan 
in that little band, and again and again did the forest ring with the 
shouts of “Alamo! Alamo!” 

The battle of San Jacinto was one of the most important 
ever fought. Vast results hung upon its issue. Perhaps, had it 
terminated in the victory of Santa Anna, Texas would not have 
gained her independence for fifty years, if ever. Six hundred and 
fifty undisciplined militiamen now stood ready to defy nearly two 
thousand soldiers of the Mexican army, and upon their success 
hung the destiny of a republic! 

The Mexican despot, being informed by his scouts of Houston’s 
position, resolved to rout him without delay. With bugle and 
drum and stirring music, his superior forces came sweeping on to¬ 
ward the little band secreted in the timber. Houston had with 
him two six-pounders, which were set to work, causing the greasers 
to hesitate ere a further advance. Santa Anna ordered his brass 
twelve-pounder to the front, and intended to back it up with a 
company of infantry. But the Texan cannon played so persist¬ 
ently upon the infantry ranks, that it was not long before the order 
to retreat was given. 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


332 


Skirmishing of this sort continued until late in the afternoon. 
Houston, mounted upon his charger, personally superintended all 
that was done, frequently becoming the target for a score of 
Mexican rifles. His horse’s bridle-hit was struck, and the branches 
of the trees shivered about his head, yet the intrepid commander 
seemed to care as little for his own safety as when performing the 
duties of Inspector General in Tennessee. 

Toward evening Santa Anna retired, with his entire force, to 
a point about three-quarters of a mile from the Texan camp. His 
day’s work was by no means satisfactory. He began to realize that 
a head equal to his own was governing the opposing forces. If the 
scenes of the Alamo and Goliad were re-enacted, it would re uire 
some shrewd manceuvering and courageous fighting. The former 
was not so difficult for the wily Mexican—the latter not so much to 
his taste. 

Houston’s confidence in his troops and the latter’s confidence in 
their General was greatly augmented by what had happened. The 
Texans were in fine spirits and ready to plunge into the jaws of death 
at the command of their leader. They were soon to manifest that 
readiness in one of the most terrific onslaughts known in history. 

It is said that at the close of this day’s skirmishing, after his 
forces w’ere put in the best possible position to resist an attack, 
Gen. Houston laid down upon his bed of turf and slept as he had 
not since taking charge of the armies of Texas. Heretofore two 
or three hours of restless slumber sufficed for his anxious brain. 
This night he lay down about midnight, and not until the glorious 
Texan sun was rising above the horizon, did he open his eyes to be¬ 
hold the day of victory or defeat. Those who stood beside him on 
this morning, have told of the peaceful expression of countenance 
and unperturbed mind which characterized the hero of San Jacinto at 
this hour, which was of itself the prophecy of triumph. “ Pos- 
SKimis quia fosse videmur^'' said an ancient writer, and we believe 


GEN. SAMUEL HOUSTON 


333 


there is much truth in it. The confidence of the General inspired 
confidence in the men. They all fought, as if sure of victory. 

About 9 o’clock a. m., Houston called his officers together for 
consultation. Four, including himself, were in favor of making the 
attack—the others thought it mere folly. For six hundred raw 
militia to attack three times that number of disciplined troops, and 
they secured behind quite formidable breastworks, did indeed appear 
the height of folly; but six hundred brave men, led by a second 
Napoleon, fighting for home, for country, for loved ones, might 
accomplish vast results. 

Hour after hour dragged wearily by without the slightest 
movement from Santa Anna. Houston was becoming impatient. 
His troops wanted to meet their foe. Finally, about 3 o’clock 
he arranged his forces in three divisions, and moved toward the 
Mexican camp. In his official report he thus describes his position; 

“ The First Regiment, commanded by Col. Burleson, was 
assigned the center. The Second Regiment, under command of 
Col. Sherman, formed the left wing of the army. The artillery, 
under the special command of Col. Geo. W. Hockly, InsjDector-Gen- 
eral, was placed on the right of the First Regiment, and four com¬ 
panies of infantry, under command of Lieut. Henry Millard, sus¬ 
tained the artillery upon the right. Our cavalry, sixt3"-one in num¬ 
ber, commanded by Col. Mirabeau B. Lamar, placed on our ex¬ 
treme right, completed our line. Our cavalry was first dispatched 
to the front of the enemy’s left, for the purpose of attracting their 
notice, whilst an extensive piece of timber afforded us an op¬ 
portunity of concentrating our forces, and displaying from that point 
agreeably to the previous design of the troops. Every evolution 
was performed with alacrity, the whole advancing rapidly in a line, 
and through an open prairie, without any protection whatever for 
our men. The artillery advanced and took station within two 
hundred yards of the enemy’s breastworks,” 


334 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


Everything in order, Gen. Houston ordered the artillery to 
begin its work. Hot and destructive went the grape shot from the 
field pieces, but not a response was given. Then, while the army 
waited in breathless suspense for the command to charge, their bold 
leader’s voice was heard, ringing out in thunder tones: “Boys! 
Remember the Alamo! Charge! !” 

With one accord every man in that line of infantry sprang 
forward into the face of a desperate foe. The breastworks are al¬ 
most reached when a terrific volley of rifle balls is sent into the 
oncoming Texans. No! not into them, for the Mexicans have 
overshot! And as the smoke died away, five hundred heroic forms 
were seen upon the battlements of tyranny. “Fire!” cried the 
commander. With a unanimity marvelous, five hundred mus¬ 
kets sent forth their messengers of death, and with a shout of 
triumph the Texans rushed through the smoke into the very midst 
of the Mexican army. 

The latter, completely surprised by the impetuous onslaught, 
had no time to reload. They began a desperate resistance in a hand 
to hand contest. Sabers flashed in the evening sunlight; bowie 
knives gleamed aloft; rifles and pistols were used as clubs, while 
many a stalwart Texan seized an opponent with an iron grasp and 
hurled him into eternity. And now the cavalry rush in! Tramp¬ 
ling the dead and dying under their horses’ feet, these maddened pa¬ 
triots swept destruction on every hand. 

For a while Santa Anna encouraged, commanded, cursed and 
entreated, his forces in turn. Several well planned charges were 
ordered by the Mexican officers, but it seemed that the god of war 
turned the tide against them at every attempt. Houston, shot in 
the ankle, his horse almost ready to fall, pierced by several bullets, 
hurried hither and thither, stirring up a flagging division, or head¬ 
ing an onslaught which always resulted the same. 

“The Alamo! The Alamo!” was borne upon the breeze 


GEN. SAMUEL HOUSTON. 


335 


from Texan throats, while the fleeing Mexicans no longer able to 
offer resistance, would respond in piteous tones, “Me no Alamo! 
Me no Alamo ! ” But vengeance swift and sure was to be 
visited upon every slave of the Mexican tyrant. A general retreat 
began ; indeed, it was little less than a panic. Most of the 
Mexicans were mounted, and fled at highest speed. But Texan 
cavalry gave chase, less than twoscore pursuing several hundred 
of the terrified greasers. Straight for Vince’s bridge they fled. But 
lo! The bridge is gone. Gen. Houston, with keen foresight, had 
ordered the bridge cut away, thereby preventing escape either by 
the Mexicans or his own army. 

The panic-stricken cavalry rushed wildly into the stream, 
many being killed by leaping over the precipitous banks, while 
many that were not thus killed or drowned, were shot down by 
the Texan soldiers. 

By 5 o’clock that evening the fighting had ceased—the 
battle was at an end. More than half the Mexican army lay scattered 
over the field, or upon the bed of the San Jacinto River. The 
Texan loss was so slight as to scarcely cause a shadow to flit across 
the face of the brilliant victory. Nine hundred English muskets, 
three hundred sabers, two hundred pistols, three hundred mules, 
one hundred horses, a very considerable amount of provisions, 
clothing, and paraphernalia, together with about $12,000 in silver, 
fell into the hands of the victors. Gen. Houston said: 

“ Boys, you have covered yourselves with glory, and I decree 
to you the spoils of victory. I will reward valor. I only claim to 
share the honors of our triumph with you. I shall not take my 
share of the spoils.” 




33 ^ FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS, 


CHAPTER IV. 

RESULTS OF THE BATTLE OF SAN JACINTO-VISIT TO NEW 

ORLEANS-HEALTH RESTORED — ELECTED PRESIDENT OF 

THE TEXAN REPUBLIC-RELEASES SANTA ANNA-A LEADER 

IN CONGRESS-RE-ELECTED TO PRESIDENCY-REPRESENTS 

TEXAS AT WASHINGTON-PECULIARITIES. 

The Texans slept the sleep of the brave on the night of that 
memorable triumph, the 21st of April, 1836. No fears of an 
approaching enemy disturbed their peace, nor visions of Texas in 
the last throes of death, which before had so often troubled them. 
Had they known the certain results of the contest, their j'oy would 
have been far greater than it was. 

But many feared that when the dead and wounded should be 
brought in, there might be some boon companion, some brave 
officer, some harrowing scene, for which not even the j‘oy and pride 
of victory can compensate. 

Finally, the night wore away—the brilliant countenance of 
Old Sol scattered the last remains of his sable comiDanion from the 
scenes of San Jacinto, and the busy hum of camp life followed the 
quiet of peaceful repose. 

“What has been done?” involuntarily escaped each soldier’s 
lips as he rose from his bed of turf. They all knew a glorious 
fight had been fought, a remarkable victory won, but none 
suspected for a moment the almost incredible results. 



22 


337 

























33 ^ FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


Eight hundred prisoners had been captured; about six hundred 
dead lay upon the field of battle, while an indefinite number were 
in the stream, or had crawled oflf in the grass to die. Less than 
one hundred of the entire Alex lean force had escaped. 

But how about the Texans? When the roll was called, thirty= 
seven did not respond to their names— seven of these were dead^ 
the others wounded! 

If the annals of modern warfare record such a triumph, the 
writer has never seen it. Jackson at New Orleans, Napoleon at 
Austerlitz, Csesar in Italy, accomplished great things; but Houston 
at San Jacinto made for himself and his brave soldiers a record that 
ought to be equally undying with those mentioned. By one pow¬ 
erful blow the independence of Texas was won, the Mexican army, 
headed by its military despot, was completely destroyed, and the 
famous Santa Anna himself taken. For before darkness had again 
settled over the camp, the General of the Mexican forces was 
picked up in a marsh, whither he had hidden in the vain hope of 
escaping. 

Houston’s shattered ankle, in the meantime, was causing in¬ 
tense pain. Proper surgical assistance could not be obtained so far 
from civilization, and although Dr. Kerr, the army surgeon and 
noble patriot, did all in his power to ease the sufferer, he was never¬ 
theless confined to his bed, and unable to move. 

It would be pleasant to give the full details of the Texan 
Revolution after the battle of San Jacinto, but as this is intended only 
for a sketch of its greatest hero, we must refer the reader to other 
works. Gen. Santa Anna was compelled by Houston to order 
every Mexican soldier beyond the Rio Grande. Indeed, they 
hardly needed such an order from their commander. “ The news 
of battle ” had struck terror to the hearts of the Mexican force yet on 
the field, and when the messenger bearing Santa Anna’s communi¬ 
cation undertook to deliver it, such was the rapidity with which 


GEN. SAMUEL HOUSTON. 


339 


they were fleeing that he could only by almost continual riding 
overtake them. 

The captured General himself lost none of his arrogance nor 
military dignity. He styled himself the Napoleon of the West, and 
considered Houston a most remarkable commander to have tri¬ 
umphed over such a genius. Nor was this an idle statement. The 
wily Mexican had shown himself possessed of extraordinary 
military ability, while his ambition must indeed, have equaled that 
of the exile of St. Helena. 

The “ Government,” which had fled at the first approach of 
the enemy, now being notified of the great victory, repaired to the 
scene to divide the spoils. The $12,000 in money had, very prop¬ 
erly, been divided among the half-starved army—the other fruits 
of conquest were delivered up to the President of the Republic. 
Then, after settling matters satisfactorily, Houston offered his 
resignation as Commander-in-chief. It was necessary that he visit 
New Orleans where proper medical attention could be given to his 
leg. Gen. Rusk, his bosom friend, was appointed to succeed him. 

It is worthy of note here that no man in all the history of 
Texas has ever been treated as ungratefully as has Gen. Sam 
Houston. Too noble to demand payment for his services,* too 
generous to take it from those who needed it as much as he, the 
leader of this army actually suffered greater privations than his 
soldiers. It is said that when conversing with Santa Anna after 
the battle, he drew a half-eaten ear of corn from his pocket and 
said: “Sir, do you ever expect to conquer men who fight for free¬ 
dom, when their General can march four days with one ear of corn 
for his rations?” 

Thus we see what he endured in the field. But these things 
were mere bubbles compared with the treatment received from the 
civil authorities. The people never loved a man more; the free¬ 
men of the commonwealth vied with each other in their eulogies; 


340 FliONTIEJiSAfEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

but jealous and unprincipled politicians were constantly hurling 
poisonous arrows at the brave man. No effort, whatever, was 
made to reward his eminent services. He was left without a penny 
with which to sail for New Orleans, or support his family. Friends 
always came to the rescue, however, so the trip to the above named 
place was made, and the hero of San Jacinto after an extended 
illness almost resulting in death, was restored to health, and his 
much loved home at Nacogdoches. 

The war was now virtually over, yet no declaration of peace 
had been made. Santa Anna remained in irons at the seat of the 
Texan government. Many wanted him executed—Houston 
uttered a stirring protest. With this probable sword of destruction 
suspended over his head, the Mexican usurper waited the final 
decision. 

It now became necessary, since San Jacinto had won inde¬ 
pendence, to elect a President, and establish a Congress. Two 
names were brought up—Gen. Austin and Ex-Gov. Smith. 

Each of these men was in every way capable, but represented 
a radical faction. Houston had been solicited, urged, entreated to 
offer'his name, but he desired the peace of private life more than 
honors of State. As the campaign wore on, and the battle became 
fiercer and fiercer, Houston, firmly believing it would be the 
only salvation of his country to elect a non-partizan President, 
gave permission to use his name. It was only ten days before 
election when Gen. Sam Houston was announced as a candidate; 
yet the people dropped their respective candidates, and sent up all 
but a unanimous vote for the saviour of Texas. 

About the first thing the new President did was to release 
Santa Anna. This monarch had promised to use every means in 
his power to obtain the liberty of Texas. He would hold Houston 
and the Texan soldiers in the highest esteem, but could not say 
many good things of the Government.” 


/ 



34J 


















































































342 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


Santa Anna did not keep his pledge. He did not use his 
influence to promote peace between Mexico and her wayward 
offspring. But perhaps had all those in authority acted as did 
Houston toward this powerful man, the harassing incursions and 
bloody struggles of after years would have been avoided. 

It was the twenty-second day of October, 1836, when Gen. 
Samuel Houston was first made President of the Republic of Texas. 
Like Washington in our own country, he was looked upon as the 
Father of the country. For two 3'ears he endeavored to straighten 
out the entangled tlireads of revolution and anarchy. How well 
he succeeded, history has told us. He was opposed by demagogues 
and foreign enemies, but with a firmness equal to that of his illus¬ 
trious friend in the White House, and a wisdom in many respects 
superior, he kept the old ship above the waves. Eminent states¬ 
men have said that history does not record such prudence and sa¬ 
gacity as was evinced by the first President of Texas. 

His term of ofiice expiring in two years, and the Constitution 
preventing a re-election, he accordingly vacated his palatial State 
residence (a log cabin) to again enjo}^ the pleasures of private life. 
Mr. Lamar succeeded him in the office. His administration was 
characterized by flagrant injustice and great extravagance. Being 
a political enemy of his predecessor, this second President of the 
embiyonic government seemed to expend all his energies in un¬ 
doing what had been done, and endeavoring to annihilate his 
opponents. 

During Lamar’s administration the people insisted upon hav¬ 
ing Gen. Houston as near the head of the government as the Con¬ 
stitution would permit. He was sent to the Congress of ’39-’4o, 
as also ’qo-’qi. He wielded unequaled power in the halls of leg¬ 
islation. His stentorian voice and fiery spirit, coupled with win¬ 
ning courtesy, made him a debater of the rarest powers. It is said 
that at one time during this administration the Republic was utterly 


GBN. SAMUEL HOUSTON. 


343 


bankrupt, and nearly the entire assemblage of congressmen were so 
much disheartened as to be in favor of adjourning sine die. Had they 
done so the dissolution of the government would have followed 
most assuredly. But just as many of the members were leaving 
the Hall, Sam Houston’s voice rang out in startling tones. In a 
moment all was silence. Every representative instinctively turned 
his ear in the direction of that well-known sound. “ Gentlemen,” 
said he, “ Texas must live! This assembly must not adjourn!” 
And taking advantage of the respectful attention accorded him, he 
gradually wanfied up to the great theme of dissolution, until, burst¬ 
ing forth with tempestuous eloquence, he took his hearers by storm, 
as it were. He strode up one aisle and down another. His long 
arms raised aloft, his bushy hair falling over his shoulders, and his 
majestic form drawn up to its fullest height, made him appear a 
perfect giant. One by one the Senators dropped into their seats, over-^ 
powered, while this human volcano went on pouring forth fire and 
smoke and lava. At length he exclaimed: 

“And now, Mr. President, I move you that this assemblage 
adjourn, to meet to-morrow morning at 8 o’clock.” 

Some one seconded the motion. 

“All in favor of the motion,” said the President, “ signify by 
saying ‘Aye.’ ” 

“Aye!” came the response fro 7 n every 7 ne 7 nber in the House. 

In 1841 (December) Gen. Houston was again made President 
of the Texan republic. Lamar had succeeded in completely de¬ 
moralizing the government. It needed a skillful helmsman, or its 
destruction was inevitable. The people knew of but one man 
capable of filling the important place. It proved to be even a 
more difficult undertaking than the organization of the govern¬ 
ment. Enemies from without, and enemies from within, must be 
contended with. But the old craftsman guided the ship over the 
tempestuous waves, passed the dangerous breakers, and by 1844 


344 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

had brought her into the harbor of the United States. In the ne¬ 
gotiations and correspondence previous to her annexation to the 
Union, the administration evinced the highest statesmanship. It 
was indeed through the skillful diplomacy of Houston, that*our 
government, as well as England and France, recognized the Lone 
Star State as worthy of notice. But the great object was finally 
accomplished—the new republic was merged into the older one, 
and Sam Houston was content. 

The popularity of this remarkable man was too great to 
permit his retirement from public life. When, insfead of a Presi¬ 
dent, the new State wanted a Representative at Washington City, 
our hero must be the one to go. He therefore visited the 
capital, after many years’ absence, in the capacity above men¬ 
tioned. For several sessions of Congress, Gen. Houston repre¬ 
sented the Lone Star State. His eloquence and patriotism won for 
him a place in the front rank of statesmen. In fact, so well known 
and popular had he become, that in 1854 his name was put before 
the American people as a candidate for the Presidency. 

We will close this very abbreviated sketch with a hasty 
survey of the man and his character. 

In person he was tall, straight as an arrow, and had a flash to 
his eye which betokened internal fire. It is said that, after leaving 
Tennessee, he adopted the costume usually worn by pioneer char¬ 
acters, and never after discarded it. Even when sitting in the 
President’s chair, or standing among his fashionably-dressed con¬ 
temporaries in the nation’s assembly, the leggins, hunting-shirt, 
and coonskin cap adorned his person. Gen. Jackson, with his 
characteristic bluntness, remarked, when some one told him about 
Houston’s peculiar dress: 

“ Thank God, there is one man at least, in Texas, who was 
made by the Almighty, and not by a tailor.” 

His motives were undoubtedly pure, his patriotism of the 


GEN. SAMUEL HOUSTON. 


345 


highest type. His ability was extraordinary. No ordinary intel¬ 
lect could have accomplished what his did, even though accompa¬ 
nied by a noble soul. Some features of his character remind us 
very forcibly of Napoleon Bonaparte; others are similar to the im¬ 
petuous Patrick Henry. His education was mostly gleaned out of 
school, although an excellent start was given the young mind at 
the Tennessee Academy. His eloquence was, at times, irresist¬ 
ible, his logic unanswerable. It seems, as we behold the labors 
and accomplishments of Sam Houston, that America has produced 
no other character, in all respects his equal. Certainly, as the 
stories are told of the heroic days of our country; as the future 
American delights himself over the record of such brilliant person¬ 
ages as Henry, Calhoun, Jackson, Clay, and Webster, one name 
more will be added to the casket of jewels, and that will 'be the 
name of Sam Houston. 











V' 




|Vi 




mmm:. 




SUN WORSHIP BY SOUTHERN INDIANS. 































































KIT GARSON. 


^ ^(S50^ 












KIT CARSON 




348 





























LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 


CHAPTER I. 

EDUCATIONAI. ADVANTAGES-APPRENTICED-^JOINS AN EXPEDI¬ 
TION FOR SANTA FE-ACCOMPANIES COL. FAR WELL AS IN¬ 
TERPRETER-ENTERS UPON IIIS FAVORITE PURSUIT OF 

TRAPPING AND TRADING-IMPROVES EVERY OPPORTUNITY 

TO GAIN A KNOWLEDGE OF THE COUNTRY-SOCIAL NATURE 

DISPLAYED-“ MONARCH OF THE PLAINS.” 

Christopher Carson, according to the best data, is a de¬ 
scendant from the Danish sea kings, whose exploits have made 
their names famous. When his progenitors came to America is 
not definitely known, nor is it a matter of moment. 

Christopher was born in Madison county, Ky., Dec. 24, 1S09. 
When he was about one year old, his father migrated from Ken¬ 
tucky to Missouri, or, as it was then known. Upper Louisiana, and 
settled in what is now known as Howard county. From the fact 
of having become a resident of Missouri while yet an infant, Carson 
is sometimes spoken of as a native of that State. Even Gen. 
Fremont ascribes to him that nativity. 

The surroundings of Carson in his boyhood days were well 

calculated to bring out all those traits of character which afterward 

349 



350 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCO (ITS. 


distinguished him. His schooling was just what was needed to 
prepare him for his subsequent career. He was, at an early age, 
taught to use a rifle skillfully. Before he was twelve years of age 
he had made many a buffalo bite the dust. 

What educational advantages, if any, he enjoyed, we are left 
to guess from the known meager facilities of that country at that 
time. Had he had the best the country afforded, it would not 
have compared with what is furnished in the average country 
school of to-day. But his mission in life was to be one in which the 
learning of the schools was of little importance. It would have 
served Carson but feebly to have known how to parse a sentence 
when he met the Indians in deadly combat; but the sure and fatal 
aim he acquired, delivered him oftentimes out of their hands. 
For this reason, we have no grounds for lamenting what might be 
termed his limited educational advantages, as that term is popularly 
understood and used. 

At the age of fifteen Carson was apprenticed to a saddler, to 
learn the trade of making saddles. The tedious routine of the shop 
was not to be endured by one of his ambition. He felt in him the 
impelling power of genius, and could not be satisfied with the 
machine like work of a harness and saddle shop. Very soon after 
he commenced the trade, he found opportunity to break his bar¬ 
gain, and enter upon the more stirring and congenial pursuit of 
trapper and trader. Happy for him, and for others whom he so 
nobly afterward served, that parental authority was not exerted to 
keep him in a position positively distasteful to him, and for which 
he had, we may reasonably suppose, no aptitude whatever. There 
would be no kind of wisdom in shutting up a natural “ path¬ 
finder’^ in the walls of a backwoods saddlery. 

He immediately joined an expedition about to start for Santa 
Fe, the capital of the Territory of New Mexico. It is hard for 
those of to-day to understand what such a journey meant. Now 


KIT CARSON. 


351 


we can board a palace car in St. Louis, and, without further thought 
or care on our part, be wheeled in comfort and peace, in a few 
hours, into Santa Fe, and even beyond, across the plains and 
mountains, into California itself. But in the days when Carson, a 
beardless boy, set out with a company of adventurers for that defj- 
tination, the journey meant a slow march through forests, across 
plains, through rivers, and over hills, day and night, burdened 
with watchfulness lest the treacherous red man, skulking in some 
ravine, should slay and scalp the traveler. The caravan with 
which Carson made his trip this time was not molested, and the 
entire journey was without incident, except that furnished by one of 
the teamsters, who carelessly wounded himself by the accidental 
discharge of a rifle. It became necessary to amputate the man’s 
arm. In this operation Carson officiated as assistant. The instru¬ 
ments used were a razor, an old saw, and a red hot iron to cauterize 
the wound. According to Peters, who gives a full account of this 
transaction, the man Anally recovered. The party arrived at Santa 
Fe, November, 1826. 

Carson did not continue with the band he had joined in Mis¬ 
souri, but leaving it, went to Fernandez de Taos, where he spent 
the winter with an old Spanish mountaineer. His sojourn here 
was of great advantage to him, as he was able to acquire a famili¬ 
arity with the Spanish language which afterward proved of great 
value to him. 

The next season he visited El Paso, then Santa Fe; afterward, 
the same year, Taos again, and finally accomplished the long 
journey from Taos to Chihuahua, Mexico. He made this trip in 
the- capacity of Spanish interpreter for Col. Tramell. This 
business, however, did not suit Carson, when the Colonel was not on 
a journey from some point to another, so he resigned his position as 
interpreter, and took charge of a team in a caravan bound for the 
copper mines on the Gila River. From this place he went back to 


352 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

Taos. At the latter place he joined a party of trappers and traders, 
and at once entered upon his favorite pursuit. The company which 
Carson joined had a double mission to perform. The real business 
in hand was trapping beavers; but a former company of trappers, in 
the employ of the same man with whom Carson now made en¬ 
gagement, had been driven from their hunting and trapping by a 
hostile band of Indians. To punish and disperse these, was another 
part of the business before the company. That Carson was chosen 
to assist in this work, shows the appreciation in which he was held 
by those who knew him best. 

The company proceeded at once to a tributary of the Rio 
Gila, called Salt River, where the Indians were attacked, several 
of their number killed, and the remainder dispersed. This was 
generally the result of rencounters between Indians and a band of 
brave, determined trappers. 

After a successful season at this place the company divided 
into two parts, one returning to New Mexico, the other going to 
the valley of the Sacramento, California. The latter part of the com¬ 
pany consisted of eighteen men, of whom Carson was one. Their 
route lay through a portion of the country that is as nearly a desert as 
any part of the United States. They suffered much from hunger 
and thirst. A good meal from horse flesh was esteemed a luxury. 
They were saved from starvation by timely assistance rendered by 
a tribe of Indians known as the Mohaves. These Indians are des¬ 
cribed by a writer who visited them as being intelligent, and for 
Indians, quite amiable. “ The men are tall, erect, and well propor¬ 
tioned; their eyes are large, shaded by long lashes, and encircled by 
lines of blue paint.” The men wear only a breech-cloth, and the 
women a short petticoat made from the inner bark of the cotton¬ 
wood. Their bodies and limbs are painted and oiled so as to shine 
like highly polished mahogany. 

While in California the party of which Carson was a member 



KIT CARSON HUNTING BUFFALO. 


«3 


353 


V 









354 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


fell in with a company trapping for the Hudson Bay Fur Company. 
They were very skillful trappers and hunters, and young Carson 
eagerly learned from them their professional secrets which they 
imparted to him, for he was a favorite with all. 

He also lost no opportunity to become thoroughly acquainted 
with the country. The knowledge he gained at this time was of 
immense value to him in after years. It is hard to resist the thought 
that an all wise Providence guided his footsteps in this direction that 
he might be prepared for the part he subsequently played. One 
biographer of Carson (Burdett) tells of a pleasant little episode 
which occurred about this time. 

It seems that Carson had by some means formed the acquaint¬ 
ance of a Spanish gentleman who owned an immense estate con¬ 
sisting of land, vineyards, cattle, horses and sheep. So pleased was 
this gentleman with Carson that he promised him a cow if he 
would accept the gift. He was glad to avail himself of the 
kindness proffered, and made a journey alone, on his pony, through 
the wild forest for twenty miles or more, to bring the animal into 
the camp. 

Soon after this Carson was the leader in two expeditions that 
show his remarkable characteristics to great advantage. 

A Catholic mission, called San Gabriel, in California, depended 
largely upon the labor of Indian converts for support. Forty of 
these Indians became restive under the restraint imposed by the 
rules of the mission establishment, and fled to a neighboring tribe. 
The mission authorities demanded their return, but the tribe to 
which they had gone refused to give them up. Carson and a few 
of his chosen followers espoused the cause of the mission and at once 
set out for the Indian village. This they completely surprised, so 
carefully did they move upon it. The Indians sustained terrible 
loss. At least one-third of their number were killed, the village 
destroyed, and the tribe dispersed. When it is remembered that 


KIT CARSON. 


355 


great courage, caution and skill are needed to successfully defeat 
Indians upon their own ground, the brilliancy of this achievement 
of Carson’s can be readily seen. 

The Captain of the company with which Carson was trapping 
had sixty horses stolen and run off by a band of thieving Indians. 
Carson was detailed to take twelve men of the party to pursue and 
recapture the horses. They followed the trail for one hundred 
miles. The Indians, not fearing pursuit to such a distance, grew 
careless. When Carson’s company came in sight of the fleeing 
party, they found them camped and feasting upon several of the 
horses which had been slain for food. Carson’s men were deployed, 
and at a given signal rushed upon the Indians, killed eight of them 
outright, wounded several, captured three Indian children, put the 
remainder of the Indians to flight, and recovered all the horses 
except those killed for the feast. 

With their prisoners and recaptured booty the party returned 
in triumph to their camp. The uniform success of Carson in his 
attacks upon Indians soon won for him the name of “ Monarch of 
the Plains.” 

There comes to us an anecdote from this period of Carson’s 
life that shows him in a pleasanter role than that of an Indian 
fighter, and trapper of beavers. 

While in California he inquired who owned the finest ranche 
in that vicinity. Having obtained the desired information he arrayed 
himself in his best attire, and mounting his pony, rode boldly to the 
ranche of the Spanish proprietor. He was civilly received, and 
right roj^ally entertained by the owner and his family of grown 
daughters and sons. After the feast which was spread for him, he 
was conducted through the spacious building, elegantly furnished, 
and through the vineyard, which looked more like an orchard of 
dwarf apple trees than a vineyard, for the vines were cut close and 
not allowed to climb a trellis. Carson at first addressed his host in 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


the best Spanish he could command, but to his great surprise was 
replied to in good English. His host explained that while Carson 
spoke good Spanish he thought he would ajopreciate conversation 
in his mother tongue. A pleasant day was passed in this social 
way. At evening the young trapper mounted his horse and rode 
back to camp, to enter with new spirit upon the prosecution of his 
work. This episode occurred near Los Angelos, or as it was then 
called, “Pueblo de Los Angelos,”—the City of Angels. 

There was connected with the hunting party a friendly Indian, 
an expert in all the duties of a hunter and trapper, and for this rea¬ 
son he was a valuable acquisition to the company, but was treacher'* 
ous. One night he slipped away and took with him six very val¬ 
uable horses. No sooner was the loss discovered than .Carson was 
selected to pursue. lie obtained as a companion another Indian, 
and together they pushed out in pursuit of the thief. They made 
but slow progress at first, as the fleeing Indian took pains to cover 
up his trail, but after becoming certain of the route he had taken, 
they i^ushcd ahead rapidly. After traveling one hundred miles the 
horse of Carson’s companion gave out, and he refused to go further. 
Nothing daunted by this unexpected turn in affairs, Carson deter¬ 
mined to continue the pursuit alone. He fully counted the cost, 
and the chances of his meeting death. But he had accepted a com¬ 
mission from the owner of the horses to return them, and this he 
would do, or demonstrate the futility of any one else attempting it. 
After traveling thirty miles alone he suddenly came up to the ob¬ 
ject of his search. A less brave man would have fatally faltered. 
The pursued and pursuer discovered each other at about the same 
instant, and were ready for the contest. The former had every ad¬ 
vantage, as he was to act on the defense. In a moment both had 
decided what to do. The Indian hurried to the shelter of a neigh¬ 
boring tree, and with his trusty rifle in jDOsition, leveled a deadly 
aim at Carson. Putting his horse at full gallop, Carson darted 



KIT CARSON KILLING INDIANS 








































35 ^ FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


forward, and with rare good luck sent a ball crashing through the 
brain of the thief. He fell forward, and as he did so, his own gun 
was discharged. The horses were all recovered. Carson’s success 
in such undertakings was phenomenal. 

As may be supposed, Indians were not the only enemies the 
hunters had to contend against. Wild animals wei*e plenty, and 
some of them ferocious and dangerous. The greatest terror of the 
Western wilds at that time was the grizzly bear. The Indians 
never entered into a contest with this animal. 

One evening Carson wandered away from camp to kill a deer 
to get venison for food. Just after bringing down a noble animal 
two grizzly bears came in sight, and at once made for him. Kis 
gun was unloaded, nnd he had no other weapon of defence. His 
only safety lay in flight. He took to his heels, but the bears were 
gaining on him. In desperation he turned aside to a small tree 
near at hand, climbed up among, the branches, and cut a large 
club with his knife. His enemies drew near, and one of them 
climbed after him while the other smacked his jaws in anticipation 
of the savory meal to be had off the body of the young hunter. A 
more terrifying position could scarcely be imagined than the one 
Carson now occupied. But he did not despair, and really felt no 
fear. When the savage beast came within reach Carson leaned 
far over and down from his perch, and with the club lay rapid and 
heavy blows upon the nose of the advancing foe. This was a new 
mode of warfare to the bear, and he slowly crept down. No soon¬ 
er had one retreated than the other came to the attack, but only to 
receive a similar reception and repulse. Twilight faded away into 
black night, and Carson was alone in the tree, while the bears 
watched and waited at the foot, occasionally renewing the attack. 
By and by, after hours of sleepless watchfulness, morning came, 
and the bears crept away to the mountains. Carson came dowm and 
hastened to camp, where he was joyfully received. 


KIT CARSON. 


359 


CHAPTER II. 

AT THE HEAD WATERS OF THE MISSOURI-WOUNDED IN AN INDIAN 

ENCOUNTER-ABANDONS HIS PROFESSION-AS HUNTER TO 

THE FORT-FEASTED AND HONORED AT ST. LOUIS-GUIDE OF 

THE EXPEDITION TO EXPLORE THE UNKNOWN WEST. 

The hunters now left California and the country south and 
east of that State, and proceeded to the head waters of the Missouri 
River. Here they had abundant success in trapping, but were 
continually annoyed by the Blackfeet Indians, who were jealous of 
the white man’s success, and resented the invasion of their hunting 
grounds. A band of these Indians stole eighteen horses from the 
trappers. As usual, the command of the party sent in pursuit was 
given to Carson. Indeed, it would have seemed strange for any 
other person to undertake the capture and punishment of the thieves. 
With his customary energy Carson hurried his little company 
forward until they overtook the Indians, who greatly outnumbered 
the whites. They were camped when discovered, and the horses 
quietly grazed near by. The Indians said they thought the horses 
belonged to the Snake tribe, and they had no intention or desire to 
steal from white men. At the suggestion of Carson the pipe of 
peace was smoked all around, while the weapons of both parties 
were put aside. At the conclusion of the conference the Indians 
went out and brought in five of the poorest horses in the lot. This 
was too much for Carson and his men. This was adding insult to 


3(5o 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


injury. They sprang to their guns, and the Indians seized theirs. 
The battle commenced in earnest. Among the whites was a man 
named Markland, who was an especial friend of Carson’s. The two 
were united in friendship as were David and Jonathan. Both in 
this engagement sprang behind trees to fight the Indians in Indian 
style. Two Indians immediately in front leveled their guns at 
Carson and Markland. Carson’s eye was on his enemy, and he 
was prepared to exchange shots with him. But just at that 
moment he discovered that Markland did not see the fellow, who 
had a bead on his heart. Quicker than thought he changed his 
aim and sent his ball into the breast of Markland’s foe, thus saving 
his life. But he did not escape himself. A ball from his antag¬ 
onist’s gun entered his neck, ranged downward, and came out of 
his arm, completely disabling him. The rest of the day he could 
only be a spectator to the fight. Night brought a cessation of 
hostilities. The whites had lost none killed and only one, Carson, 
wounded, but they determined not to wage the unequal contest 
longer, and so returned to camp. They paid every possible attention 
to their wounded leader, but what could their best ministrations 
avail to a man in his condition? Not a murmur escaped his lips. 
He bore his sufferings like the hero he was. It was many weeks 
before he recovered. 

For a year or more Carson continued his trapping operations. 
The time was at hand when the business of trapping beavers would 
become unprofitable, owing to the introduction of silk for various 
purposes for which beaver had been used. The season closed, and 
Carson found the price for his peltries so depreciated that he con¬ 
cluded to abandon the profession. 

He had now spent eight years in the arduous and dangerous 
task of trapping. During that time he had traveled over the 
whole of the Western country trapping on all the rivers from the 
source of the Mississippi to the mouth of the Colorado. Had 


KIT CARSON, 


361 


Carson had the advantages of a scientific education, he could have 
collected, arranged and published an account of his travels and 
discoveries, and thus enrolled his name among the great names of 
earth, especially of the New World. But had he had these advan¬ 
tages in early youth, very probably his talents would have found 
some other channel than that of a fearless Indian fighter and hardy 
hunter. As it was, however, Carson was the forerunner of 
another who was to put on record in durable shape the wonder¬ 
ful discoveries made in the great West. 

Carson proceeded to Fort Bent, where he engaged himself to 
Cols. Bent and St. Vrain as hunter to the fort. This position he 
held eight years. His business was to supply the inmates with 
food. There were forty mouths to feed, and it was no small under¬ 
taking to provide by means of rifle and trap, food for all these. Yet 
Carson did it. We can easily imagine how one of his tempera¬ 
ment and previous experience would enjoy the chase. He might 
have returned to the bounds of civilization, but he j^referred the 
company of Cols. Vrain and Bent, and the exhilarating chase. 
Dr. Peters says Carson was bound to the fort by other ties than 
those of fondness for the duties of his office. He was in debt to 
Col. Vrain; not a pecuniary obligation bound him, but a debt of 
ofratitude, for Col. Vrain first discovered and directed Carson’s 
peculiar adaptability for the life he afterward led. 

While he was engaged as hunter at the fort a messenger came 
from the Comanche Indians, who had united with the Arapahoes 
to drive back the Sioux, the latter having come from their northern 
home to invade the hunting grounds of the two tribes mentioned. 
The messenger said they wanted Carson to lead them against the 
enemy. He consented to go to their council of war, but he per¬ 
suaded them to seek peace with the Sioux. After much entreaty, 
they yielded. The result was that the Sioux were dissuaded from 
their purpose and returned without molesting the other tribes. 


363 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


In this episode we find a very interesting trait of character in 
Carson. The glory of that peaceful achievement outshines any 
daring deed before recorded of him. 

While at the fort Carson married. His bride was an Indian 
maiden. A daughter was born to the young hunter by this wife. 
The mother did not long survive. Carson determined to take his 
daughter to St. Louis and there give her all the advantages his 

means could 
command. Ar¬ 
rangements for 
the journey were 
made as soon as 
possible. His 
route lay through 
his old home, 
1^/ which he had not seen for sixteen years. 
He did not know that his exploits were 
public property, and that his fame was 
universal: His old acquaintances and 
relatives gave him a royal welcome, 
and in every possible way attested their 
appreciation of his heroic deeds. But 
many changes had occurred In the sixteen years he had been away. 
Many of his recollections were sad, and brought tears to his eyes. 

In due time he arrived at St Louis. To his great surprise he 
was here greeted by strangers most cordially, and by them feasted 
and honored in a manner quite dazzling. But his surroundings were 
not congenial. While he appreciated the kindness shown him, he 
longed for other scenes—for the freedom and excitement of a fron¬ 
tier life. 

Carson went to St. Louis to jDut his daughter under proper 
care, but his going was remarkably fortunate as to time. So 



CARSON’S INDIAN DAUGHTER. 




4 


r 



Carson’s Indian bride. 


363 












































364 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


opportune was his going that we may well believe a superior intel¬ 
ligence directed his movements. 

Lieut. John C. Fremont, of the United States army, was in St. 
Louis organizing a company to explore the then unknown great 
West. He was awaiting the arrival of a famous hunter named 
Capt. Drips, who was expected soon in St. Louis. Fremont had 
heard of Carson. Indeed, Carson’s life was perfectly familiar to 
him. It is not hard to imagine how delighted Fremont was when 
Carson offered him his services as guide. Arrangement was at 
once made to have Carson accompany the expedition. It was not 
necessary to wait longer for Capt. Drips. 

On the 22d of May, 1S42, the expedition took boat at St. 
Louis, and went up the Missouri to the mouth of the Kansas River, 
where it landed, and proceeded to tlie Choteau trading post, where 
a halt was made, to complete arrangements for further prosecution 
of their work. 

Carson now was just entering upon his career. His jDrevious 
experiences were but as a training-school to prepare him for his 
great mission. Providence could not have thrown together two 
more congenial spirits than Fremont and Carson. One was the 
complement of the other, so far as the work before them was con¬ 
cerned. They harmonized perfectly. Their friendship increased 
day by day, and nothing ever occurred to mar its serenity or break 
its strength. The company consisted of twenty-one men. Fre-* 
mont was leader; Charles Preuss, surveyor; L. Maxwell, liunter, 
and Christopher Carson, guide. The remainder of the company 
consisted of Canadians and Creoles, who had seen service on the 
prairies. The company reached a ford on the Kansas River on 
the 14th of June, and preparations were at once made for crossing. 
The river was much swollen by recent rains, and the current was 
swift and turbid. By nightfall all were across, except part of the 
carts. These were in a boat, to be ferried over. The boat cap- 


KIT CARSON. 


sized, and all the contents went floating down stream. Next day 
Carson and Maxwell regained the lost property, but, in so doing, 
the exposure and fatigue brought on sickness. This caused a delay 
until they recovered sufficiently to go on. After waiting until 
everything was in readiness again, the cavalcade moved on. One 
day a member of the party who had loitered in the rear, came 
galloping up, saying he had seen a company of twenty-seven In¬ 
dians just over the hill. Carson mounted a horse and galloped off 
to reconnoitre. Fremont put his men in shape to receive an attack, 
lie makes the following record of Carson’s appearance, and the 
result of his investigation: 

^ Mounted on a fine horse, without saddle, and scouring, bare¬ 
headed, over the prairies, Ki*: was one of the finest horsemen I had 
ever seen. A short time enabled him to discover that the Indian 
war party of twenty-seven consisted of six elk, which had been 
gazing curiously at our caravan as it oassed by, and were now 
scampering off at full speed.” 

A day or two afterward, while chasing a buffalo, Carson’s 
horse stumbled, threw, and severely hurt him. The horse re¬ 
covered himself and darted away at full speed. He was finally 
recaptured by Maxwell, who gave chase as soon as he saw the 
accident. We cannot do better than give here an account of a 
similar chase the next day, for, though badly hurt, Carson could 
not be kept out of the saddle when such exciting sport was at 
hand. We give Fremont’s own words: 

“ The hunters were brought up and saddled, and Kit Carson, 
Maxwell and I, started together. They were now somewhat less 
thaii half a mile distant, and we rode easily along until within about 
three hundred yards, when a sudden agitation, a wavering in the band, 
and a galloping to and fro of some which were scattered along the 
skirts, gave us the intimation that we were discovered. We 
started together at a hard gallop, riding steadily abreast of each 


366 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS. AND SCOUTS. 


other, and here the interest of the chase became so engrossingly 
intense that we were sensible of nothing else. 

“A crowd of bulls, as usual, brought up the rear, and every 
now and then some of them faced about, and dashed on after the 
band a short distance, and then turned and looked again, as if 
more than half inclined to stand and fight. In a few moments, 
however, during which we had been quickening our pace, the rout 
was universal, and we were going over the ground like a hurricane. 
When at about thirty 3'ards we gave the usual shout, and broke 
into the herd. We entered on the side, the mass giving way in 
every direction in their heedless course. We separated on entering, 
each singling out his game. 

“ My horse was a trained hunter, famous in the West, under 
the name of Proveau, and, with his eyes flashing, foam flying from 
his mouth, sprang on after the cow like a tiger. In a few moments 
he brought me alongside of her, and, rising in my stirrups, I fired 
at the distance of a yard, the ball entering near the heart. She fell 
headlong at the report of the gun, and checking my horse, I looked 
around for my companions. 

“At a little distance. Kit was on the ground, engaged in tying 
his horse to the horns of a cow he was preparing to cut up. 
Among the scattered bands, at some distance below, I caught a 
glimpse of Maxwell, and while I was looking, a light wreath of 
white smoke curled away from his gun, from which I was too far 
to hear the report. Nearer, and between me and the hills, toward 
which they were directing their course, was the body of the herd, 
and giving my horse the rein, we dashed after them. A thick 
cloud of dust hung upon their rear, which filled my mouth and 
eyes, and nearly smothered me. In the midst of this I could see 
nothing, and the buffalo were not distinguishable until within 
thirty feet. 

“ They crowded together more densely still as I came upon 


KIT CARSON. 


567 


them, and rushed along in such a compact body that I could not 
obtain an entrance^ my horse almost leaping moon them. In a few 
moments the mass divided to the right and left, the horns clattering 
with a noise heard above everything else, and my horse dashed 
into the opening. 

“ Five or six bulls charged on us as we dashed along the line, 
but were left far behind, and singling out a cow, I gave her my 
fire, but struck too high. She gave a tremendous leap, and scoured 
on swifter than before. I reined up my horse, and the band swept 
on like a torrent, and left the place quiet and clear. Looking 
around, I saw only one of the hunters, nearly out of sight, and the 
long, dark line of our caravan crawling along, three or four miles 
distant.” 

The Fourth of July was observed appropriately by the explor¬ 
ers. Salutes were fired, toasts were drank, and general hilarity 
prevailed. 




368 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS, 


CHAPTER III. 

ON THE LOFTIEST PEAK OF THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS-RETURN 

TO FORT LARAMIE-ACCOMPANIES FREMONT ON AN EX¬ 
PLORING EXPEDITION TO GREAT SALT LAKE - FIRST EX¬ 

PERIENCES ON THE “ INLAND SEA.” 

Fremont here decided to divide his company. He desired to 
explore the south fork of the Platte as far as the Fort, while anoth¬ 
er part of the company should explore the north fork as far as 
Fort Laramie. Arrangements were made accordingl3L Carson 
was detailed to accompany the party that explored the north fork. 
Fremont made a successful trip to the fork and thence across the 
country to Fort Laramie, where he was joyously welcomed by the 
other division, which had arrived in advance of him. 

Here they learned that the Sioux Indians were on the war-path. 
They were roaming over the country they desired to enter, wreak¬ 
ing vengeance upon every living being, especially the whites. A 
trapper came into camp and said he had been driven from his hunt¬ 
ing ground by the Sioux, and it was dangerous to proceed farther. 
These statements had very disastrous effect upon the minds of Fre¬ 
mont’s little band. Some of them desired to be discharged at once. 
It is recorded in Fremont’s account of this expedition that Carson 
admitted the hazard of the work before them, and made his will. 
Fremont says this one thing had greater power to influence his 
men against a forward move than anything that had occurred. 


KIT CARSON. 


369 


From this, some have concluded that tear prompted Carson. 
But such a conclusion is not w^ell founded. It was only a proper 
consideration for his daughter, and a just appreciation of the actual 
dangers ahead that prompted him. It is true that Fremont’s 
account would leave the impression that he censured Carson for this 
act, in view of the influence it would have upon the minds of the 
party, who for the most part were not hunters nor Indian fighters, 
yet this is to be inferred, as it is not positively asserted. However, 
when the day came for the final decision, Fremont called the men 
around him, and after stating the difficulties and dangers before 
them, said, “ Any one choosing to turn back, or remain at the Fort, 
might do so.” Only one availed himself of the opportunity. 

Carson warned the expedition that they would soon encounter 
rough roads, and regard for their own comfort and convenience 
required that they should get rid of all surplus baggage, discard 
carts, and use only pack mules. His advice was followed. Thus 
equipped, the little company pushed out from the fort to traverse 
the wild and unknown country that lay between them and the 
Rocky Mountains. They had already traveled, since leaving the 
steamboat, nine hundred and fifty miles. 

They had not been on the road long before they encountered 
a band of straggling Indians, who told them the grasshoppers had 
destroyed all grass and the Sioux were obliged to abandon their 
war, as no subsistence for their horses could be obtained. This was 
cheering news, and the little company pushed ahead with renewed 
determination and rising hopes. 

The approach to the mountains was of such gradual ascent 
that they scarcely knew when they had arrived at the summit, for 
a great plain stretched out around them. The barometer showed 
them to be several thousand feet above the sea level. There was, 
notwithstanding, a peak before them that Fremont was ambitious 
to scale. For this purpose he selected fifteen men, with Carson as 


24 . 


370 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


guide, and pushed on up the mountain. For days they toiled and 
reached the summit of the peak, but before them lay another that 
towered a thousand feet skyward. It was decided not to push 
farther, and Fremont ordered Carson next morning to take the 
mules back to the camp. In obedience to this order, Carson and 
some of the men were gone by daylight, leaving Fremont and his 
companions to return at leisure. But that day the programme was 
changed, and the commander scaled the peak before him and waved 
the Stars and Stripes, his country’s flag, from the summit. Carson 
would have been glad to share with him the joy of standing upon 
the loftiest peak of the Rocky Mountains, but his duty as an obedi¬ 
ent subordinate deprived him of this pleasure. As it was, only four 
men out of the whole company, shared this triumph with Fremont. 

The return trip to Fort Laramie was accomplished without 
incident. Fremont’s mission was accomplished. He had no further 
need of Carson’s services, who therefore proceeded to New Mexico. 

Here Carson found employment with his old friends. Cols. 
Bent and St. Vrain. This was in 1S43. He was this year, while 
engaged for these men iis hunter, married to a Spanish lady. 

Shortly afterward he heard that two days before Fremont 
had passed that way on a second exploring expedition. Carson 
followed his trail for seventy miles. The meeting of these two 
men was mutually agreeable. Carson desired only to greet his 
former commander and then return to his place at the fort, in the 
employ of St. Vrain. The estimation placed upon his services the 
previous year, is attested by the fact that Fremont insisted upon ' 
Carson’s accompanying him on this expedition. He consented to do 
so, and was sent back to the fort to bring up some fresh supplies. 
This was midsummer, 1S43. 

Fremont’s object was to visit the Great Salt Lake, or inland 
sea, of which such wonderful stories had been told by hunters ana 
trappers. He was then to move on until he should connect his 




371 




















372 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


surveys with those made by another officer, who was proceeding 
from the pacific coast eastward. The sufferings and privations 
endured these men surpass belief. Yet they were cheerful for 
the most part, and often made the camp resound with mirth and 
song, though there were times when cold and hunger forced 
silence. When they had nothing to subsist upon but roots, and 
were famishing almost from thirst, not a word was spoken, and the 
march was continued in quiet. But when such want and privation 
was succeeded by plenty, as it was when game was killed, and a 
stream of water and a grassy plat furnished a good camping place, 
gaiety returned, and the welkin rung with mirth. When game 
could not be obtained a horse was killed, and furnished several 
clays’ subsistence for the twenty-five men who composed the 
company. 

As they advanced, supplies were less easily obtained, and Fre¬ 
mont sent back a part of the company, while he and a select few 
continued tlie journey. There were only three other men besides 
Carson and Fremont, who were permitted to push on to the great 
inland sea. The others were left in camp, after those who had 
been sent back to the fort were gone. 

Sept. 6 found them standing on the summit of a butte from 
which they had a fine view of the object of their search, the 
Great Salt Lake, “stretching in still and solitary grandeur far be¬ 
yond their vision,” to quote the language of Fremont, in describing 
their first view of the waters. He said Balboa and his companions 
could not have been more elated upon the discovery of the Pacific 
Ocean, than were they at this moment. For many weeks they had 
been struggling along, hemmed in on all sides by mountains, and 
now this vast expanse of water was to their minds, sublime in the 
extreme, and they felt repaid for all they had endured to get this 
view. We give in Fremont’s own words the account of their 
explorations on the lake, asking the reader to remember that Car- 


KIT CARSON. 


373 


son was by his side in every movement. Their voyage was to be 
made in a rubber boat. Just before embarking they discovered that 
it was leaky, and indifferently put together. They were not 
daunted by these facts, though, and with remarkable courage en¬ 
tered upon their chosen task. Fremont says: 

“The day was clear and calm; the thermometer, at sunrise, at 
49 °. As Is usual with trappers on the eve of any enterprise, our 
people had had dreams, and theirs happened to be a bad one— 
one which always preceded evil—and consequently they looked 
very gloomy this morning; but we hurried*through our breakfast 
in order to make an early start, and have all the day before us for 
our adventure. The channel in a short distance became so shallow 
that our navigation was at an end, being merely a sheet of soft mud, 
with a few inches of water, and sometimes none at all, forming the 
low water shore of the lake. All tliis place was absolutely covered 
with flocks of screaming plover. We took off our clothes, and 
getting overboard, commenced dragging the boat—making by this 
operation a very curious trail, and a very disagreeable smell in 
stirring up the mud, as we sunk above the knee at every step. The 
water here was still fresh, with an insipid and disagreeable taste, 
probably derived from the fetid mud. After proceeding In this 
way about a mile, we came to a low black ridge on the bottom, 
bevond which the water became suddenly salt, beginning gradually 
to deepen, and the bottom was sandy and firm. It was a remarka¬ 
ble division, separating the fresh water of the rivers from the briny 
water of the lake, which was entirely saturated with common salt. 
Pushing our little vessel beyond the boundary, we sprang on board, 
and at length were afloat on the waters of the unknown sea. 

“ We did not steer for the mountainous islands, but directed 
our course toward a low one, which it had been decided we should 
first visit. So long as we could touch the bottom with our paddles, 
we were gay; but gradually as the water deepened, we became 


374 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS, 


more still in our frail bottom of gum cloth distended with air, and 
with pasted sen ms. Although the day was very calm there was 
considerable swell on the lake; and there were white patches of 
foam on the surface, which were slowly moving to the southward, 
indicating the set of the current in that direction, and recalling a 
recollection of the whirlpool stories. The water continued to 
deepen as we advanced, the lake becoming almost transparently 
clear, of an extremely beautiful, bright green color, and the spray, 
which was thrown into the boat and over our clothes, was directly 
converted into a crust* of common salt, which covered also our 
hands and arms. ‘Captain,’ said Carson, who had been looking 
for some time at some whitening apjiearance outside the nearest 
islands, ‘ What are those yonder? Won’t you just take a look with 
the glass?’ We ceased paddling for a moment, and found them to 
be caps of the waves that were beginning to break under the force 
of a strong breeze that was coming up the lake. The form of the 
boat seemed to be an admirable one, and* it rode the waves like a 
w;iter-bird; but at the same time it was exceedingly slow in prog¬ 
ress. When we were a little more than half way across the 
reach, two of the divisions between the cylinders gave way, and it re¬ 
quired the constant use of the bellows to keep in a sufficient quan¬ 
tity of air. For a long time we scarcely seemed to approach our 
island, but gradually we worked across the rougher sea of the open 
channel into the smoother water under the lee of the island, and be¬ 
gan to discover that what we took for a long row of pelicans 
ranged on the beach, were only low clifF whitened by the salt from 
the spray of the waves, and about noon we reached the shore, the 
transparency of the water enabling us to see the bottom at a con¬ 
siderable depth. 

“ The cliffs and masses of rocks along the shore were whitened 
by an incrustation of salt where the waves dashed up against them, 
and the evaporating water which had. been left in holes and hollows 


KIT CARSON. 


375 


on the surface of the rocks was covered with a crust of salt about 
one-eighth of an inch in thickness. 

“ Carrying with us the barometer and other instruments, in the 
afternoon we ascended the highest point of the island, a bare, rocky 
peak, about 800 feet above the lake. Standing on the summit we 
enjoyed an extended view of the lake, inclosed in a basin of rugged 
mountains, which sometimes left marshy flats and extensive bot¬ 
toms between them and the shore, and in other places came directly 
down into the water with bold and precipitous bluffs. 

“ As we looked over the broad expanse of water spread out 
beneath us, and strained our eyes along the silent shores, over which 
hung so much doubt and uncertainty, and which were so full of 
interest to us, I could hardly repress the almost irresistible desire to 
continue our exploration; but the lengthening snow upon the moun¬ 
tains was a plain indication of the advancing season, and our frail 
linen boat appeared so insecure that I was unwilling to trust our 
lives to the uncertainties of the lake. I therefore unwillingly re¬ 
solved to terminate our survey here, and remain satisfied for the 
present with what we had been able to add to the unknown geog¬ 
raphy of the region. We felt pleasure also in thinking that we 
were the first who, according to the traditionaiy annals of the 
country, had visited the islands and broken with the cheerful sound 
of human voices the long solitude of the place. I called this Dis¬ 
appointment Island. 

“ Out of the driftwood we made ourselves pleasant little lodges 
open to the water, and after having kindled large fires to excite the 
wonder of any straggling savage on the lake shore, lay down for 
the first time in our long journey in perfect security, no one thinking 
about his arms. The evening was extremely bright and pleasant, 
but the wind rose during the night, and the waves beat heavily on 
the shore, making our island tremble. The strangeness of our situ¬ 
ation, and the excitement we felt in the associated interests of the 


376 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


place, made this one of the most interesting nights I remember 
during our long expedition. 

“ In the morning the surf was breaking heavily on the shore, 
and we were up early. The lake was dark and agitated, and we 
hurried through our scanty breakfast and embarked, having first 
filled one of the buckets with water from which it was intended to 
make salt. The sun had risen by the time we were ready to start, and 
it was blowing a strong gale of wind almost directly off the shore, 
and raising a considerable sea, in which our boat strained very 
much. It roughened as we got away from the island, and it re¬ 
quired all the efforts of the men to make any head against the wind 
and sea, the gale rising with the sun, and there was danger of 
being blown into one of the reaches beyond the island. At the 
distance of a half mile from the beach the depth of the water was 
sixteen feet, with a clay bottom. There was a general shout when 
we found ourselves in one fathom, and we soon after landed on a 
low point of mud, where we unloaded the boat and carried the 
baggage to the firmer ground.” 

On the 12th of the month they commenced the return trip to 
the rest of the company. They consumed all their provisions, and 
as no game could be found they killed a fat young horse, and while 
the carcass remained, fared sumptuously.’ This privation was re¬ 
lieved by the timely arrival of a party sent to them with an assort¬ 
ment of edibles, including flour and coffee. 





KIT CARSON. 


377 





CHAPTER IV. 

COURAGE FAILS ELEVEN OF THE PARTY-THE REMAINDER 

BRAVELY ENDURE THE PERILS-RETURN-CROSSING THE 

MOUNTAINS-EFFECT OF EXPOSURE UPON THE COMPANY- 

ARRIVAL AT SUTTER’s FORT-THIRD EXPEDITION-CARSON 

AS PATRIOT. 

Winter was now coming on. Fremont called the company 
together, mapped out before them the route he expected to take, 
and faithfully depicted the dangers and hardships of the under¬ 
taking. Under the influence of these explanations, the courage of 
eleven failed, and they were permitted to return home. Carson, 
however, was ready for any and all dangers and hardships. With 
those who volunteered to remain with him, the commander took 
up his march south through the valley. Rains fell, the winds blew, 
and storms beat in their faces, but onward they went, feeling the 
privations and discomforts keenly, but never uttering a word of 
complaint, nor asking to be excused. The roads were rough and 
hilly. At some places the men had to put their shoulders to the 
wheels of the carts, to help the animals draw them up. Their 
progress was slow. Fremont says the country is “melancholy 
and strange-looking—one of fracture, violence, and fire.” The 
only enjoyment the men experienced was the feasting which ac¬ 
companied the slaying of an ox, though it was gaunt and generally 
uninviting. In this way they pushed on until they arrived at Nez 


37^ FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


Perce, where Fremont’s mission ended, and where he commenced 
preparations for return. Carson was assigned the duty of superin¬ 
tending the making of pack-saddles, and refitting the equipage. 

The first point to be visited in the route was Tlamath Lake, 
between the head waters of the Fall River and the Sacramento. 
Thence they were to proceed southeast—in search of the supposed 
Mary’s Lake—and thence still further southeast to the reported 
Buenaventura River; thence they were to proceed to the head 
waters of the Arkansas River, and thence down that river to their 
home. Bent’s Fort. 

The company was heterogeneous as to nationality. There 
were among them American, French, Canadian, Indian, and 
German—twenty-five in all. 

They provided themselves with rations for three months, con¬ 
sisting largely of tallow and peas, and also purchased some cattle, 
to be driven along on hoof, and killed as needed for food. The 
undertaking was a great one, and many of the company young, 
but none were terrified at what lay before them. They arrived at 
Tlamath Lake, and found It to be a large basin entirely devoid of 
water, except when the waters fiom melting snows of Spring ran 
into it. From here they proceeded toward Mary’s Lake. But no 
Mary’s Lake could be found where the best maps Fremont could 
get said it ought to be. They ariived there about Jan. 3. 
Fremont concluded, from all signs, that he was on the verge of a 
great desert, which he feared to enter, and, instead of continuing 
on southeast, he bore off in a southerly direction, keeping close 
along the mountain side, and hoped in this way to come to 
Buenaventura River. 

Their discomforts and perils were increased by heavy fogs 
that settled down upon them, and were so dense that they would 
get lost from each other if separated by only a short distance. 
Thus they pursued their toilsome way for a week or more, when 



379 



















3^0 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


they emerged from the basin or valley through which they had 
been traveling, and came upon a large body of water, some twenty 
miles wide. Of this Fremont thus writes: 

“It broke upon our eyes like an ocean. The waves were 
curling in the breeze, and their dark green color showed it to be 
deep water.” 

Here the}'- camped. Scarcely had they lighted their fires 
before they were surrounded by nearly half-naked Indians. They 
were friendly, and appeared quite intelligent, but of course our 
travelers could not communicate with them except by signs. One 
of them told Fremont, or made him understand by signs, that 
before the snow fell it was just six days’ journey to where the 
white men lived (meaning California), but that now, since the 
snow was on the mountains, they could not get there at all. The 
Indians tried to dissuade the party from attempting to cross the 
mountains in the face of what, they were satisfied, would be death 
from cold and hunger. After much entreaty, they obtained a guide 
from the Indians, and again commenced the onward move, deter¬ 
mined to cross the mountains at all hazards. Carson was called 
upon to tell the company what he knew of California. He 
graphically described it as a land of sunshine and plenty, strangely 
contrasting with the dreary wilderness in which they were then 
languishing. Fremont assured them they were not more than 
eighty miles from the beautiful valley of the Sacramento. Thus 
encouraged, the company set out for the perilous trip across the 
mountains in midwinter. 

It was here that they were obliged to kill a dog that had been 
their companion for many weeks, and make a meal upon its flesh. 
It made a very tempting appearance to many, as it lay cut up and 
spread out on the snow, but others of the company preferred to 
fast to eating any of it. 

The first night they l)uilt a huge fire around a large pine tree 


KIT CARSON, 


381 

spread branches upon the snow, upon these threw their blankets, 
and lay down to rest and to sleep, the clear sky their only covering, 
the winds whistling through the leafless trees, and the thermometer 
showing ten degrees above zero. 

Two Indians followed and showed by signs that before them 
were rock upon rock, rock upon rock, snow upon snow, snow upon 
snow, and death was waiting to receive them. Their harangue 
did not deter the brave men, but it had a visible efl’ect upon their 
Indian guide, who hid his head in his blanket, and bitterly moaned. 
Fremont took compassion upon him, and, to add to his comfort, 
threw his own blanket upon his shoulders; but after a few minutes 
he found his generosity misplaced, for the guide was gone, and also 
the cloak or blanket. 

After almost incredible hardships, they reached the summit and 
commenced the descent. This was slow in the extreme. Their 
animals would flounder and wallow in the snow, and some of them 
had to be left to die. In some places the snow was five feet deep, 
and in others twenty feet. Sometimes the crust would bear them, 
and again they were compelled to shovel their way through the 
drifts. On Feb. 20, 1844, they encamped, with all the animals and 
camp equipage, on the summit of the pass, one thousand miles from 
the Dalles of the Columbia, from which they started the previous 
September, after the visit to the great Salt Lake. 

While thus struggling in the snow and ice they witnessed a 
thunder storm in the valley below, saw the lightning, and heard the 
thunder. It had to them an indescribable charm, suggesting as it 
did all the comforts and pleasure of summer weather for which 
they now longed so earnestly. They watched the progress of the 
storm until sunset. 

The next morning Carson and Fremont went ahead to explore 
a route. They came to a swift mountain stream, narrow,deep and 
icy. Carson sprang across and Fremont attempted to follow, but 


382 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


his foot slipped, and he fell into the water. Carson sprang in and 
helped him out, and thus both were dripping wet and fearfully cold. 
They built a fire, dried their clothes and continued their search for 
the best route. We can not give all the details of this descent. Its 
character can be readily inferred from the fact that the suffering 
endured caused one of the company to become deranged in mind, 
while several of the mules died of exposure and hunger. They did 
not reach the settlement of whites until March 6, when they 
arrived at Sutter’s Fort, where they were cordially received by that 
person. Of the sixty-seven horses with which they commenced 
the journey, only thirty-three lived to reach the destination. 

In the last few preceding pages we have not mentioned 
Carson’s name, but he was a sharer in all the privations enumer¬ 
ated, and was Fremont’s main dependence in every trying hour, and 
won from that heroic leader warmest regard and honorable men¬ 
tion in his account of that journey. 

Carson returned to his home in Taos and richly enjoyed the 
quiet comforts of his own house after the adventures experienced in 
his expedition with Fremont. He had fully determined to devote 
himself to the tilling of the soil, and made preparations to enter 
upon a farmer’s life in the spring of 1S45. But he was not to be 
permitted to thus enjoy himself. Before separating from Fremont 
he had promised to join him in a third expedition if he should ever 
desire his services. Now a messenger arrived at his house from 
Col. Fremont reminding him of this promise, and asking when he 
could meet the Colonel for another trip. 

Accordingly Carson and an intimate friend named Owens 
started out at once to join Fremont’s party at Bent’s Fort on the 
Arkansas River. This company was composed entirely of experi¬ 
enced hunters and trappers, and every man of it was Carson’s 
particular friend. After examining the sources of various rivers 
they proceeded again to the Great Salt Lake and encamped upon 


KIT CARSON. 


383 


its southwestern shore. Leaving this* they pushed on westward. 
After a few days the party was divided into two sections. Fremont 
with ten men, whites and Indians, composed one. With this 
section was Carson. They traversed and explored the country to 
the Nevada Mountains. They were here joined by the other 
section. Fremont ordered it to move south and cross the mountains 
through some of the many passes, while he and his men went 
directly over to Sutter’s Fort to obtain provisions and supplies. 

While passing through the foot hills they came suddenly upon 
a band of Indians who had been over on the coast and stolen a large 
number of horses and were now taking them to the interior to eat 
or use for other purposes. They kept the Indians at bay untd 
nightfall, killing some of them in the meantime. During the night 
the Indians fled to the mountains and Fremont and his party pro¬ 
ceeded unmolested. 

The journey across the mountains this time was a repetition of 
that described a few pages back. The hardships endured seem 
incredible. Finally they arrived at Sutter’s Fort and were kindly 
received and entertained. 

We now enter upon another phase of Carson’s life. Up to 
this time we have seen him as an individual, working for his per¬ 
sonal profit. Surely no braver man ever lived; no more successful 
trapper ever snared the beaver; no truer friend ever pledged 
fidelity to another; no hardier mountaineer ever crossed the Rockies. 
But Carson was a patriot. He fought for his country, and because 
of his achievements we are to-day, as a nation, worth more by all 
the untold wealth of California’s mines than we would have been 
had he not lived. 

At the time of which we write war had been declared between 
the United States and Mexico, and California was a Mexican pro¬ 
vince. Americans, therefore, were enemies to the Mexican govern¬ 
ment. Having been for a year or more buried in the wildernesses, 


384 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS, 


hunting out new lakes and rivers, Fremont and Carson knew 
nothing of the relation of the two countries, nor dreamed that they 
were now upon the enemy’s soil. Fremont, being an officer in the 
United States army, was ordered out of California by Gen. Castro, 
the Mexican commander. But he did not go. Instead of quietly 
withdrawing he selected a good j^lace and threw up fortifications. 
These were completed about the time Gen. Castro arrived and 
demanded surrender. But Fremont and his men did not surrender. 
There were only forty Americans, while the Mexican army num¬ 
bered several hundred. The Mexicans encamped near by, and 
the Americans awaited developments. After three days it was 
decided that Gen Castro had no Intention of molesting the little 
garrison, and Fremont and his men withdrew, intending to visit 
Lawson’s trading post, to procure necessary supplies and make 
their way homeward by way of Oregon For in the present con¬ 
dition of affairs further exploration in Southern California was not 
to be thought of. 

It should be remembered that Fremont and his little company 
had no official notice of any rupture between the States and Mexico, 
though rumors to that effect were in circulation. We qan not fail 
to admire the promptness and dash with which the Americans in 
California acted. To Fremont and to Carson must be ascribed a 
large share of joraise for the acquisition of so important a province 
as California, the value of which was not then known. 

Carson heartily seconded every effort of Fremont to protect 
American citizens, residents of California, and to resent any insult 
shown the Stars and Stripes. 

While tarrying at Lawson’s a report reached them that the 
Indians, one thousand strong, were moving against the post, and 
were breathing out threatenings of slaughter against all American 
settlements, acting meanwhile under the advice of the Mexican 
authorities. Fremont’s little command, reinforced by addition of 


KIT CARSON. 


385 


five men from the post were at once ready to move against the 
savages and defend the weak and unsuspecting settlements of their 
countrymen. Carson was unanimously chosen Lieutenant, with 
Fremont as leader. The engagement which ensued as soon as the 
white men met the Indians, resulted in an overwhelming defeat of 
the savages, who fled from the field with a remembrance of the 
skill and courage of the hardy hunters and patriots that never lost 
4^.3 influence in preventing any future hasty engagement. 



3^6 FRONT/ERiiMENy F/ONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


CHAPTER V. 

TO THE RESCUE OF THE OFFICIAL FROM WASHINGTON-WAR¬ 
RIORS ATTACK THE SLUMBERING PARTY-CONQUEST OF 

CALIFORNIA-CARSON BEARS DISPATCH OF THEIR ACHIEVE¬ 
MENTS TO WASHINGTON-EXAMPLES OF FIDELITY AND 

BRAVERY-BREVET BRIGADIER-GENERAL-DEATH. 

The Indians dispersed, and having no orders from his govern 
ment, Fremont returned to Lawson’s to complete preparations for 
the homeward march through Oregon. While pushing their \yay 
northward, they were surj^rised by the appearance of two white 
men, who proved to be part of a guard of six men who were ac¬ 
companying an officer from Washington with messages for Fre¬ 
mont, from the government. They said the remainder of the i^arty 
were two days behind them, and seriously threatened by Indians, 
and that they themselves had been pursued, and had escaped only by 
the exceeding swiftness of their steeds. 

Fremont determined to go to the rescue without delay, and 
selected as his companions Kit Carson and nine other good men. 
There were of course, no highways upon which the officer must 
travel, and whence it would be impossible to miss him, but on the 
other hand the two parties might pass each other on different roads 
or trails. Fremont’s party marched until afternoon, when they 
reached a good camping ground and concluded that they would 
wait there until the officer came up, supposing he would be con- 


KIT CARSON. 


3S7 


ducted to the same rendezvous. About sundown they saw four 
men approaching. They were Lieut. Gillespie, of the United 
States Marines, and his escort. They had come from Washington 
by the way of the City of Mexico, to Upper California with messages 
for the U. S. Consul, and under instructions to find Fremont and 
party, if possible. The meeting of these men is described by Car- 
son in a letter which he wrote to a Washington paper in 1847. 
The officer brought Fremont letters from home, the first he had 
had for nearly a year. As may be guessed, he did not go to sleep 
early that night, but sat up by a big fire until after midnight, read¬ 
ing his letters. 

There were sixteen in the party. They felt secure from any 
attack, and neglected the usual precaution of setting a watch. The 
men were all tired, and slept soundly, wrapped in their blankets, 
ranged around the fire, ( special friends keeping near each other. 
No other night since the time Carson and Fremont and compan- 
ioiiij slept on the island in Great Salt Lake, had they failed to post 
a sentinel. Fatal omission indeed it was, at this time! 

While the commander was reading his letters by the light of 
the camp fire, twenty Tlamath Indians were watching him and 
his sleeping soldiers. The enemy lay in ambush near at hand. 
Finally the letters were finished, and with thoughts of home and 
loved ones, the commander wrapped his blanket about him and 
stretched himself on the ground near Carson, to sleep and dream 
of home. On the opposite side of the fire lay Basil Lejerneuse and 
others. 

In a few minutes all were asleep. The fire burned low, and 
the heavy breathing of the whole company attested at once their 
weariness and the profoundness of their sleep. The dusky savages, 
arrayed in war paint and decked in gorgeous garments, crept quiet¬ 
ly from their ambush, one by one, grasping firmly the tomahawks, 
each selecting a victim, and stole stealthily upon the slumbering 


388 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


men. Had their plan been carried out probably not one would 
have escaped to tell the horrible tale of that night. But the faint-^ 
est sound of cracking twigs under the feet of the advancing foe 
awakened Carson, and he stirred. The foremost savage leaped 
forward. A heavy thud, a slight groan, and a rush of the others, 
followed. Carson sprang to his feet and cried out to Basil: 

“ What’s the matter there? What’s that fuss about? ” 

But Basil did not answer. The Indian had buried his battle 
axe in his head, and he never knew what killed him. The man 
lying beside Basil also was slaughtered by a heavy blow of the axe. 
He turned over, groaned, and died. 

All this was done in less time than it takes to write it. 

Carson and one of his companions were first on their feet and 
shouted as they hurriedly took in the scene: 

“ I ndians! Indians! ” 

Fremont sprang to his gun. The other men did the same. 
No orders were given. None were needed. Every man of that 
little company knew his duty, and performed it promptly and well. 
Carson and Fremont were together, and rushed into the midst of 
the savages. A well-directed shot from a man named Slepp 
brought down the chief, who was conspicuous even in the dim fire¬ 
light by the gaudiness of his attire. The remainder of the Indians 
fled. The loss of the whites were three men killed, and one 
wounded. The same Indians a day or two before had visited the 
camp of Fremont, and partook of his hospitality. Very likely the 
Indians were desirous of killing Gillespie, and frustrating what they 
supposed were plans laid by these two officers for further prosecu¬ 
tion of the war against the Mexicans. The Indians never again 
found the men off guard. 

As a natural result of that night’s doings, every man vowed 
vengeance against the Indians and the Mexicans, who were their 
instigators, to be taken at the first opportunity. 



SQUAW AND PAPPOOSE. 


I 


389 









390 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

Carson and ten chosen men were sent on in advance to dis¬ 
cover if possible, an Indian village. His instructions were to attack 
and destroy it, if he felt able, with his force; or send back word for 
help, when the whole company would advance to the attack. 

They soon found a trail that led to a village of fifty lodges. 
Arriving at the village they found the Indians in commotion, hav¬ 
ing discovered the approach of the whites. No time was to be lost, 
so Carson ordered a charge. The Indians were panic stricken, and 
fled in confusion, leaving all their possessions behind. The victors 
pursued and shot down the fleeing savages without mercy. Finally 
Carson ordered a halt, and a return to the village, where the lodges 
were fired and all their contents destroyed. The village thus given 
over to the fiames was the handsomest Carson had ever seen, the 
lodges displaying exquisite workmanship. 

It was now time for the Indians to seek vengeance. They 
accordingly watched the movements of Fremont’s party very 
closely, but always at a safe distance. About a week afterward, 
while marching toward the Valley of the Sacramento, the company 
came to a gorge or pass, and were about to pass through it when 
Carson advised a detour, as, he said, the Indians were probably in 
ambush there. Sure enough, while they were passing around the 
canyon, the Indians, enraged at the loss of their prey, emerged from 
their cover, and sought an open fight. The result was disastrous 
to them. Carson in this skirmish captured a bow and a quiver of 
arrows, which he gave Lieut. Gillespie as trophies of the conflict. 

After a delay of several days, meanwhile hunting in the 
vicinity of Lawson’s, Fremont determined not to wait for orders, 
but to begin at once the conquest of California. His men were eager 
for the fray. They at once moved against Sonoma, capturing the 
fort and garrison. Among the 2:)risoners were Gen. Vallejos and 
two cajotains, all of the Mexican army. They also cajDtured sev¬ 
eral cannon and a quantity of small arms. 


KIT CARSON. 


391 


All the Americans in that region now rallied under the Stars 
and Stripes, and chose Fremont leader. Fremont proceeded from 
Sonoma to Monterey to capture that port, but on his arrival found 
the town already in the possession of Commodore Sloat, of the 
navy. Fremont and his American followers had declared the in¬ 
dependence of California, taken possession in the name of the United 
States, and hoisted the bear flag as their battle ensign. 

Commodore Sloat and Fremont, the latter with a command of 
one hundred and fifty hardy pioneers, now united their forces and 
marched against Gen. Castro, at Los Angeles. Arriving before 
that city they found the place evacuated. Gen. Castro had fled 
before the little American army. Fremont was made governor of 
California, with headquarters at Monterey. 

Carson and fifteen men were started overland for Washington 
with important dispatches, which detailed all the movements of 
Fremont’s forces, and told of their brilliant achievement in captur¬ 
ing the entire province. He started out with instructions to make 
the journey in sixty days. One can easily imagine how proudly 
Carson moved out on this expedition. Hope animated him, and he 
had a vague idea of the glory of carrying such important news to 
Washington. He was sure of a grand reception and royal treatment. 

He encountered a band of Apache Indians. Here he resorted 
to stratagem. Indeed, that was his only hope of escape. Nothing 
daunted by their superiority in numbers, and warlike attitude, he 
demanded a parley, which was granted, and he succeeded in per¬ 
suading them that he and his companions were but travelers, and 
had come to them for an exchange of animals. He made the 
desired exchange and next morning was on his way, glad so easily 
to escape from his treacherous foe. 

He now approached his own home, Taos, and confidently 
counted on the joys of a few hours’ sojourn with his loved ones. 
He was to be disappointed. 


392 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS. AND SCOUTS. 

While crossing a broad prairie he met Gen. Kearney, of the 
United States army, proceeding overland to California to make a 
conquest of that territory. Carson related his past experience and 
informed the General of the object of his mission to Washington. 
Kearney proposed to send the dispatches on to Washington by a 
special messenger, while Carson should return with him as guide. 
No doubt Carson’s disappointment was great, but he knew he would 
be of invaluable service to Gen. Kearney in his march, and there¬ 
fore he consented to this arrangement. A Mr. Fitzpatrick took the 
dispatches on to Washington, and Carson retraced his steps, accom¬ 
panied by Gen. Kearney and his little army. 

Leaving the Rio Grande Oct. i8, the command arrived within 
the borders of California Dec. 3, so direct a route had Carson 
pursued. The next day Carson and a few companions captured the 
spies whom Gen. Castro had sent out to report the movements of 
Kearney. It was soon discovered that Gen. Castro intended to 
give battle to Kearney before he could join forces with Fremont 
and the Commodore. Kearney was impatient for the encounter, 
but Carson advised a detour to avoid the Mexicans, as the Ameri¬ 
cans had just made a long and hard march, and were not mounted 
on horses suitable to enter an engagement. Kearney moved for¬ 
ward and attacked the enemy, 

Carson was in the front. His horse stumbled and threw his 
rider, hurting him severely, but not seriously. His gun was broken. 
The remainder of the company galloped over him. When they 
had passed he seized a gun from a dead dragoon, mounted his 
horse, and was soon in the thickest of the fight. Only forty of 
Kearney’s men were mounted on horses, the rest being on mules. 
The latter became unmanageable, and soon what promised to be an 
easy victory was a disastrous defeat. Several officers lay dead 
upon the field, and of the forty men on horses, thirty were either 
dead or severely wounded. Gen. Kearney himself was severely 


KIT CARSON. 


393 


wounded. Carson and two other officers were all that were left fit 
for duty. The next morning Carson and twenty-five men formed 
an advance guard, and moved out, followed by the remainder, a 
sadly crippled little army. The Mexicans menaced them con¬ 
stantly. About sundown the Americans sustained another attack, 
and retired before superior numbers. They finally rallied, charged 
the Mexicans, and occupied the field, but more than this they could 
not do. They were now hemmed in, without food or water, and 
liable to fall an easy prey to the enemy. 

In this strait Carson and Lieut. Beale volunteered to make 
their way through the enemy’s lines, and hasten to Stockton for 
assistance. 

They were obliged to crawl for many rods in darkness, making 
every movement slowly and carefully lest they attract the atten¬ 
tion of the sentinel. At one time they were so near him that they 
could clearly see his outline in the dark. While in this close place, 
the sentinel stopped and lighted his cigar with flint and steel. Car- 
son in relating his experience afterward said he could hear Beale’s 
heart beat, so quiet were they for fear of detection. The short time 
occupied in lighting the cigar seemed an age to them, and their joy 
was great when the sentinel mounted his horse and rode to another 
part of his beat. For two miles they worked their way on hands 
and knees. When they had got beyond the lines and rose to run, 
they found that they had lost their shoes while creeping along, for 
they were attached to their belts when they started. Barefooted, 
with great pain, cut and bruised, they hurried on, and late the next 
night arrived at the camp of their friends. A detachment of two 
hundred men were at once sent to the relief of the surrounded force 
of Kearney. Carson was not able to accompany them. He was 
too much fatigued, and his feet were in a horrible condition. Lieut. 
Beale was partially deranged on account of his exposure and fatigue. 
It was two years afterward before he fully recovered his health. 


394 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


In March, 1847, Carson was sent to Washington with dis¬ 
patches, and Lieut. Beale accompanied him, with important docu¬ 
ments tor the Navy Department. Beale was so feeble tliat for the 
first twenty days of the journey he was lifted on and off his horse 
by Carson, but after that he recovered rapidly. They encountered 
Indians only once, and then they were attacked at night, but es¬ 
caped without injury. The entire journey was completed in less 
than ninety days. They traveled two thousand five hundred miles 
on horseback, and fifteen hundred miles by railroad. 

Mrs. Fremont was at the depot in Washington to meet 
Carson. She did not wait for an introduction, but at once called 
him by name, saying '^he would have recognized him anywhere, 
from her husband’s description of him. He was taken at once to 
the home of her father, Col. Benton, where she also lived. 
Carson was commissioned Lieutenant by President Polk, and was 
put in command of fifty men to take through the territory of the 
Comanche Indians, who were at that time at war with the whites. 
He was not molested, however, until he reached a place known as 
“ The Point of Rocks.” Here he found a company of United 
States volunteers, and camped near them. That night the Indians 
captured some animals, and the next morning attacked the herders 
as they were moving the cattle to new pasturage. Carson and his 
men dispersed the Indians, and recaptured the cattle. 

He proceeded to Fort Leavenworth, and there met his family, 
who had been notified to meet him at that place. 

He finally arrived at Los Angelos, and went thence to 
Monterey, delivered his dispatches, and, taking a company or 
twenty-five dragoons, spent the winter at Tijon Pass. 

The next spring he made another trip overland to Wash¬ 
ington. It was on this trip that he learned that his appointment as 
Lieutenant in the army had not been confirmed by the Senate, but 
he did not let this neglect to bestow upon him well-earned honor 


KIT CARSON. 


395 


deter him from the faithful performance of his duty. He accord- 
proceeded to Washington, and delivered his dispatches. He 
returned at once to his home, Taos, where he arrived in October. 

Soon afterward he was summoned to act as guide to Col. 
Beale, who was sent out to subdue the Apache Indians. 

Carson had, about this time, the honor of entertaining at his 
own home. Col. Fremont and 2:)arty, who had endeavored to 
survey a route for a road to California, but had got lost in the 
mountains, endured incredible sufferings, being forced to feed upon 
horses that starved, and, some say, they even fed upon the corpses 
of frozen men! 

Carson accompanied Col. Beale in another expedition to in¬ 
duce the Comanche Indians to return to the Mexicans the prisoners 
they had taken from them. He then returned to Taos, and, with 
Maxwell, settled in a beautiful valley, and entered with zest upon 
the cultivation of the soil, and raising cattle, sheep, and other 
domestic animals. Here peace, plenty, and prosperity awaited 
him. The Indians greeted him kindly, and familiarly called him 
“ Father Kit.” 

In 1S53 he took a drove of sheep across the plains, and Vas 
delighted to find in California such wonderful mining camps and 
beautiful residences, where, in the years just preceding, was nothing 
but a wilderness. 

Upon his return to Taos, in December, i8'53, he received in¬ 
formation of his appointment as Indian Agent for New Mexico. 
He discharged the duties of this office with remarkable fidelity and 
success, for no one was better fitted than he for the office to which 
he was now appointed. He was known and respected by all the 
Indians of the Territory. 

During the War of the Rebellion Carson gave his attention to 
the prosecution of a war against the Indians who were hostile to 
the government, and rose from one position to another until he at- 


39 ^ FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

tained that of Brevet Brigadier-General. In 1864 he accomplished 
the removal of the Navajoes, who had given the government much 
trouble, to their reservation. 

Gen. Carson died at Fort Lyon, Col., 23d of May, 1868, the 
cause of his death being a rupture of an artery. 

The rifle that he carried for thirty years is now in the 
possession of Montezuma Lodge A. F. and A. M., Santa Fe, of 
which he was a member. 

Many exciting scenes in his life we have passed over, as they 
would fill volumes. As a friend, he was true as steel; as a soldier, 
brave as a lion; as a trapper and hunter, he had no superior; as 
mountaineer and guide, his equal could not be found; as a faithful 
officer of the government, he was without reproach. 












i; 



































\ 



398 








































































LIFE OF MAJ.-GEN. GEO. A. CUSTER. 


CHAPTER I. 

SCHOOL DAYS-LOVE FOR SPORT-MAKES FMIM FRIENDS-AS A 

PEDAGOGUE-ADMITTED TO WEST POINT-L5FE AS A CADET 

-RECEIVES EXPULSION-IS RE-ADMITTED-GRADUATES. 

Our country has been prolific ir developing military heroes. 
Foreigners of distinction, coming to America, imagine every indi¬ 
vidual of note a Major, Colonel, or General after the first week’s 
introduction. Indeed, it would have been difficult ten years ago 
to find a corporation, state, or national officer without the military 
prefix to his name. So monstrous a thing had been the Great 
Rebellion, not mentioning the several conflicts iDreceding it, that 
thousands were called to wear the ejDaulette and star. They were 
from all grades of society, from every section of the land. The 
friends of each loved to herald the fame and title of their respective 
champion, and so popular did such designations become that even 
those who had bravely remained at home during the ^^erilous times 
of the war were also honored with an empty “ colonelcy,” or else a 
“ generalship.” 

So frequently were these titles placed where they did not belong, 
and so many have been the officers properly bearing them who 

399 



400 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

never reached beyond mediocrity in their commands, that we must 
look deeper than the name in order to distinguish the genuine 
^t-om the real. 

The life of George A. Custer furnishes evidence of his titles 
Oeing properly given, and his stars heroically won. He was an 
extraordinary man. Had he been born ten years earlier than he 
was, it is exceedingly probable that the American armies would have 
called him to a much higher place than they did, and the American 
people to positions more responsible. But we will glance at his 
career from boyhood to death, to discover for ourselves the charac¬ 
teristics of this hero. 

He was born at New Rumley, O., Dec. 5, 1839. His father 
had married the second time. The maiden name of his second wife, 
George’s mother, was Ward—Maria Ward. The ancestry on both 
sides of the house was honorable, and somewhat chivalric. 

Emmanuel Custer, the father of George, was a member of the 
agricultural fraternity, gaining a livelihood by tilling the soil about 
the little town of New Rumley. He was ever ready to aid in the 
suppression of wrong, or fight the battles of his country when 
needed. While George was quite small, his father joined the 
militia organized over the country about that time. As soon as the 
son could carry a toy musket and march beside his father, he was 
permitted to do so, much to the amusement of the other militiamen. 
The sport seemed particularly suited to the young American’s dis¬ 
position. He soon learned the crude tactics of that day almost 
perfectly, and undoubtedly received his first incentive toward that 
eventful military career he afterward pursued. 

The father of George endeavored to give the boy the best 
education that was possible with his limited means. He was sent 
to the New Rumley district school until about ten years of age. 
At this time his oldest sister, Lydia, was married to a Mr. Reed. 
The couple were to move to Monroe, Mich., and the sister of 


MAJ.-GEN. GEO. A. CUSTER. 


401 


George requested that he might go with her. Accordingly the lad 
was permitted to try tlie realities of “ Western life,” and learn some 
things whicli proved in after years of invaluable assistance. 

“ Old Stebbins’ Academy,” as the select school in Monroe was 
generally called, was the only one to be found, and to it young 
Custer was immediately started. For two years geography, 
arithmetic, and spelling occupied his attention, when there were no 
military novels to read ! He early manifested the greatest appe¬ 
tite for thrilling adventure, especially the experiences of war. One 
would think that with such tastes and disposition the boy would 
have been a miniature soldier among his fellows on the school 
grounds, always working up dissebsions in order to enjoy the 
excitement of the fight. But not so. It is recorded of him that 
while he was incessantly playing practical jokes, and enjoying the 
out of door sports of school life, he was never known to have a 
fight. He was gentle-spirited naturally, though determined and 
boisterous when necessary. As in after life, so in boyhood, every 
one liked him. The friendships he made among the Monroe boys 
in the two years he was there, were as lasting as life. All through 
the stormy future his old schoolmates ever had the deepest regard 
for “ Antie,” and Antic possessed the same for them. 

After two years with his sister, Mrs. Reed, George returned 
to his father’s farm at New Rumley. Here he worked and went to 
school for a couple of years, when Mrs Reed again requested that 
he visit her. For the second time he made the journey to the wilds 
of Michigan. Rev. Mr, Boyd was principal of a seminary in the 
town at George’s second coming, and he conducted an excellent 
school. Much attracted by the ofier of superior advantages for mind 
culture, the boy, now fourteen years of age, concluded to re¬ 
main and attend the seminary. This was one of the wisest decis¬ 
ions young Custer ever made. Upon it, to a great degree, hung his 
future glory. It was while at the seminary that he manifested 
26 


402 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


such aptness, was so quick in taking advantage of the opportunity 
afforded for mental development as not only to give him confidence 
in his own ability, but also to draw all needed encouragement from 
his 2:>i'eceptor and friends. 

After a two years’ sojourn with his friends at Monroe, George 
returned to New Rumley, but not to work on the farm. His am¬ 
bition for future renown was roused. Everything, now, must con¬ 
serve his purpose. Accordingly, as the first step in the right direc¬ 
tion, he secured a school at Hopedale, Ohio, and began his inde¬ 
pendent career as a pedagogue. How many are the names of 
greatness which were first heard of in the same way! The mere 
becoming a school teacher is hardly a guarantee of greatness, but 
surely no better discipline can be secured for a young, ambitious 
mind. There is something in the profession that comj^els self-reli¬ 
ance, while it proves an inspiration for higher commands. 

For about a year George handled the birch over the rising 
generation of Hoi^edale. At the exj^iration of that time he re¬ 
paired to a normal school at Hoj^edale, known as the AIcNeely 
Normal School. He had determined to become as j^roficient as 
possible in his profession. But the 3U)ung man was by no means 
satisfied with this sedentary jnirsuit. His eye had been on West 
Point for some time, and soon after entering the McNeely school 
he addressed a letter to Mr. Bingham, Member of Congress from 
his district, relative to an api^ointment. Mr. Bingham treated the 
ap^olicant courteously, but was unable to get him the j^lace at that 
time. George was doomed to spend the remainder of ’55 and ’56 
attending the normal, teaching, and following a jdow. The spring 
to the i^athway was found, but as yet failed to respond to his touch. 

At length Mr. Bingham secured the appointment to West 
Point of George Armstrong Custer, of Ohio. With gladdened 
heart, and a bright future before him, the young man hurried on to 
the great military school for examination. 


MAJ.~GEN, GEO. A. CUSTER, 


403 


Let us now take a look at this ambitious candidate for a cadet¬ 
ship. He is eighteen years of age His appearance is such as 
attracts attention anywhere; although not of extremely large pro¬ 
portions physically, he was of a vigorous, wiry frame, buoyant with 
health, and capable of great endurance. His complexion is that of 
a blonde. His head is covered with a mass of golden curls which 
arc the envy of the opposite sex. He could enter no company but 
his bright curls aiul sunny face distinguished him from all others. 

Such was tlie appearance ot George A. Custer as he walked 
up to headquarters at the military academy. Once admitted to the 
halls of that notorious school, the “ realities ” of cadet life began. 
It took courage, determination, and a good intellect to carry one 
through the five years at West Point then, as through the shortened 
but severer course of to-day. Young Custer spent his first days 
with comparatively little sufiTering. Of course more or less hazing 
was resorted to; he was visited in his room once or twice, and com¬ 
pelled to ])erform antics, do menial service, and in various ways 
acknowledge the superiority of those in a higher grade; hut after a 
while his wit, his strength, and handsome appearance gave him a 
respite, and “ Custer” was one of the boys. 

Custer, the cadet, was not altogether a success. His remarka¬ 
bly buoyant spirits demanded open air, and to grapple with and tug 
away at Euclid or some scientific enigma in civil engineering, was 
very much against the grain. In military tactics he at once became 
proficient, but that is by no means the most difiicult portion of the 
cadet’s course. Hard study is also required. So little heed did the 
young man ^^ay to his books, that at graduation he stood the lowest 
of his class. Says he: 

“ My career as a cadet had hut little to commend it to the 
study of those who came after me, unless as an example to be care¬ 
fully avoided. The requirements of the academic regulations, a 
copy of which was placed in my hand the morning of my arrival 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


404 

at West Point, were not observed by me in such a manner as at all 
times to commend me to the approval and good opinions of my in¬ 
structors and superior officers. My offenses against law and order 
were not great in enormity, but what they lacked in magnitude, 
they made up in number The forbidden locality of Benny Havens 
possessed stronger attractions than the study and demonstration of 
a problem in Euclid, or the prosy discussion of some abstract 
proposition of moral science. My class numbered, upon entering 
the Academy, about one hundred and twenty-five. Of this 
number only thirty-four graduated, and of these, thirty-three 
graduated above me. The resignation and departure of the 
Southern cadets took away from the Academy a few individuals 
who, had they remained, would jDrobably have contested with me 
the debatable honor of bringing up the rear of the class.” 

Thus we learn from Custer’s own words, the record, and the 
cause of that record, while at West Point. He was decidedly un¬ 
ruly. He loved fun, and would have it at the expense of lessons or 
his own happiness. 

In his memoirs we learn that about sixty-five Saturdays, the 
cadets’ recreation days, during the four years he remained there, 
Were spent on extra duty, as punishment for misdemeanors. In¬ 
deed, the climax of his wild career at West Point was just at gradu¬ 
ation. He had been made an officer of the day, whose imperative 
duty it was to keep order. Toward the close of the day a couple of 
his fellows got into a dispute, which soon resulted in a regular fist 
combat. Quite a crowd collected about the combatants, some of 
whom were for separating them. Custer, with his characteristic 
love of excitement, forgetting that he, above all others, must keep 
the peace that day, rushed up to the crowd, and pushing them 
back, cried out; 

“ Stand back, boys; let’s have a fair fight.” 

Unluckily, one of the officers of the institution was not far 


MAJ.-GEN. GEO. A. CUSTER. 


405 

away, and overheard the remark of Custer. The young man was 
immediately arrested, and brought to trial. The preliminary in¬ 
vestigation developed the fact that he was guilty of remorselessly 
breaking the ironclad rules of the Academy, and ought to be re¬ 
moved. His case was sent to Washington, with the advice that he 
be expelled. This was a sad blow to the young man, just on the 
eve of graduation. In fact, only a few hours after this trial, orders 
came relieving his class of cadets from further connection with 
the Institution. 

Through the influence of friends, however, the authorities at 
Washington were persuaded to believe better things of him, and an 
order soon came for George A. Custer to report at government 
headquarters with the rest of his class. 





406 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS, 


CHAPTER II. 

INTERVIEW WITH GEN. SCOTT-WITH m’dOWELL, AS LIEUTEN¬ 
ANT, AT RULE RUN-READY FOR EMERGENCIES—UNDER 

THE COMMAND OF BRIG.-GEN. KEARNEY-INVITED TO A 

POSITION ON GEN. m’CLELLAN’s STAFF-IN HANCOCK’S DI¬ 
VISION-DISTINGUISHES HIMSELF IN “ THE SEVEN DAYS’ 

FIGHT ”-WINS GLORY UNDER GEN. KILPATRICK-MADE 

BRIGADIER-GENERAL. 

We have hastily traced the boyhood and opening manhood of 
Custer. We have seen him a hoy among boys, and now we shall 
behold him a man among men. The great Civil War of America 
was fast approaching; even now the murmur of the distant thunder 
could be distinctly heard. The battle of Bull Run was yet to be 
fought, but the American people were to wait only a brief period 
before the news of that Southern victory was to be heralded from 
Maine to California. It was to be a time for developing heroes, 
and vagabonds as well. The capable and ambitious patriot had a 
glorious field laid out before him; the incapable and semi-disloyal 
were to be very much worsted by the events of the next four years. 

For the youthful, but determined, fiery, Custer, the prospect of 
war was indeed all that could be desired. Not that he loved to see 
his country rent asunder; not that the thought of brave and loyal 
hearts weltering in their life's blood had no terrors for him; but the 
idea of fighting the battles of the noble republic under whose 



A CROW CHIEF. 


407 


































4oS FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


banner he had been reared and educated, against a traitorous foe, 
thrilled him with enthusiasm. He was anxious for active work in 
the field. His fears of a quiet life were soon to be dispelled. 

It was about 2 o’clock on the morning of July 30 , 1861, when a 
modest youth of twenty-one summers reported to the Adjutant- 
General at Washington for orders. The stern old officer glanced 
at the young man, one among many, took his credentials, saw that 
it was a graduate of West Point who stood before him, and in rather 
a respectful tone inquired if he would like to see Gen. Scott, the 
commander of the Union armies-. Custer was quite overcome by 
such condescension. He had so long been used to the frigid 
atmosphere surrounding all high officials at the academy, that the 
prospect of really speaking to the great Gen. Scott was more than 
he could at first comprehend. Of course he readily assented, and 
was led into an adjoining apartment. The Adjutant-General intro¬ 
duced him as “Lieut. Custer, of the Second Cavalry; he has 
just reported from West Point, and I did not know but that you 
might have some special orders to give him.” Turning from the 
company who sat with him near the table, the old chieftain said: 

“Well, my young friend, I am glad to welcome you to the 
service at this critical period. Our country has need of the strong 
arms of all her loyal sons in this emergency.” 

Upon being informed by the Adjutant-General that Custer 
had been assigned to Company G, Second Cavalry, under Gen. 
McDowell, the chief continued: 

“ Some of our young men from West Point have been put to 
drilling volunteers. Others have been sent immediately into active 
service; which do you 2:)refer?” 

Custer signified a desire to engage in active warfare at once. 

“ A very commendable decision, young man,” replied Scott. 
“ Make out Lieut. Custer’s orders directing him to p*-oceed to his 
company at once.” 


MAJ.-GEN. GEO. A. CUSTER. 


409 


Thus the die was cast, and the young- West Pointer, who two 
days before had been only a cadet within the peaceful walls of the 
academy, now found himself on the way to take command of a 
company In the portending struggle. 

The next day after Custer’s arrival, Gen. McDowell ordered 
his forces to get ready for action. No battle had yet been fought 
by the contending factions, and now that there was a prospect of 
engaging in the first and final victory, as many of the Union soldiers 
thought, the excitement became intense. All were anxious to meet 
and annihilate the rebels—more so than they were three days later. 
But the battle of Bull Run must now be fought. Custer, as a 
youthful Lieutenant, was to participate. The hours of preparation 
dragged wearily, but marching orders were at length given, and 
the forces were on their way to meet the foe. 

It will be unnecessary here to relate the experiences of Bull 
Run. Students of history know the direful results of that, the 
first battle of the Rebellion. Gen. Scott, as commander of all the 
armies, and Gen. McDowell as the one in Immediate command, 
have been loudly condemned for the great defeat eflfected by the 
Southern army. Whether the criticisms are just or unjust is not 
for us here to express an opinion. Our object is to follow Custer. 
If we do this we will find him in the thickest of the fight, we will 
find him winning laurels at the first engagement. Although Com¬ 
pany G, of the vSecond Cavalry, was not permitted to take a very 
active part at this time, yet the young Lieutenant manifested a fiery 
spirit when the opportunity was given. We will let Custer him¬ 
self tell something of the first engagement : 

“ When we arrived at Sudley Springs,” says he, “ the cavalry 
halted for half an hour or more. We could hear the battle raging 
a short distance in our front. vSoon a staff officer of Gen. McDowell’s 
came galloping down to where the cavalry were waiting, saying 
that the General desired us to move across the stream, and up the 


410 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, 'AND SCOUTS. 

ridge beyond, where we were to support a battery. The order was 
promptly obeyed, and as we ascended the crest, I saw Griffin with 
his battery galloping into position. The enemy had discovered 
him, and their artillery had opened fire upon him, but the shots 
were aimed so high the balls passed overhead. Following the 
battery we also marched within plain hearing of each shot as it 
passed over Griffin’s men. I remember well the strange hissing, 
and exceedingly vicious sound of the first cannon shot as it whistled 
through the air. Of course I had often heard the sound made by 
cannon balls while passing through the air during my artillery 
practice at West Point, but a man listens with changed interest 
when the direction of the ball is toward instead of away from him. 

“ They seemed to utter a different language when fired in angry 
battle, from that put forth in the tamer practice of drill. The bat¬ 
tery whose support we were, having reached its position on an 
advance crest near the right of the line, the cavalry was massed 
near the foot of the crest, and sheltered by it from the enemy’s fire. 
Once the report came that the enemy was moving to the attack of 
the battery which we were specially sent to guard. The order was 
at once given for the cavalry to advance from the base to the crest 
of the hill, and repel the enemy’s assault. We were formed in 
columns of companies, and were given to understand that upon 
reaching the crest of the hill, we would probably be ordered to 
charge the enemy. When it is remembered that but tliree days 
before I had quitted West Point as a school boy, and as yet 
had never ridden at anything more dangerous than a three foot 
hurdle, or tried my sabre on anything more animated or combative 
than a leather head stuffed with tan bark, it may be imagined that 
my mind was more or less given to anxious thoughts as we ascend¬ 
ed the slope of the hill in front of us. At the same time I realized 
that I was in front of a company of old and experienced soldiers, all 
of whom would have an eye upon their new lieutenant, to see how 


MAy.-GEN. GEO A. CUSTER. 411 

he comported himself when under fire. My pride received an 
additional incentive, from the fact that while I was on duty with 
troops for the first time in my life, and was the junior ofiicer of all 
present with the cavalry, there was temporarily assigned to duty 
with my company, another ofiicer of the same rank, who was sen¬ 
ior to me by a few days, and who, having been appointed from 
civil life, was totally without military experience, except such as 
he had acquired during the past few days. My brief acquaintance 
with him showed that he was disposed to attach no little importance 
to the fact that I was fresh from West Point, and supposed to know 
all that was valuable or worth knowing in regard to the art of war. 
In this common delusion I was not disposed to disturb him. I soon 
found that he was inclined to defer to me in opinion, and I recall 
now, as I have often done when in his company during later years 
of the war, the difficulty we had in deciding what weapon we 
would use in the charge to which we believed ourselves advancing. 
As we rode forward from the foot of the hill, he in front of his 
platoon, and I abreast of him, in front of mine. Walker (afterward 
Captain) inquired in the most solemn tone: ‘ Custer, what weapon 
are you going to use in the charge?’ From my earliest notions 
of the true cavalry man, I had always pictured him in the charge 
bearing aloft his curved sabre, and cleaving the skulls of all with 
whom he came in contact. We had but two weapons to choose 
from; each of us carried a sabre and one revolver in our belt. I 
promptly replied, ‘ The sabre,’ and suiting the action to the word, 
I flashed my bright new blade from the scabbard, and rode forward 
as if totally unconcerned. Walker, yielding no doubt to what he 
believed was ‘ the way we do at West Point ’ imitated my motion, 
and forth came his sabre. As we rode at a deliberate walk up the 
hill, I began arguing in my own mind, as to the comparative 
merits of the sabre and revolver as a weapon of attack. If I re¬ 
member correctly, I reasoned pro and con about as follows: ‘ Now 


412 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS 


the sabre is a beautiful weapon; it produces an ugly wound; the 
term sabre charge sounds well; and above all, the sabre is sure; 
it never misses fire. It has this drawback, however; in order to be 
made effective, it is indispensable that you approach very close to 
your adversary—so close that if you do not unhorse or disable him, 
be will most likely render that service to you; so much for the 
sabre. Now as to the revolver, it has this advantage over the sabre; 
one is not compelled to range himself alongside bis adversary before 
beginning bis attack, but may select his own time and distance. To 
be sure, one may miss his aim, but there are six chambers to empty, 
and if one, two, or three miss, there are still three shots left to fire 
at close quarters. As this is my first battle, had I not better defer 
the use of the sabre until I have acquired more experience?’ 

“ The result was that I returned my sabre to its scabbard, and 
without uttering a word, drew my revolver, and poised it opposite 
my shoulder. Walker, as if following me in my mutual discussion, 
no sooner observed the change of weapon than he did likewise. 
With my revolver in my hand, I put it upon trial, mentally. First 
I realized that in the rush and excitement of the charge it would 
be difficult to take anything like accurate aim. Then, might not 
every shot be fired and without result, by which time in all proba¬ 
bility, we would be in the midst of our enemies, and slashing right 
and left at each other; in which case a sabre would be of much 
greater service than an empty revolver. This seemed convincing; 
so much so that my revolver found its way again to its holster, and 
the sabre was again at my shoulder. Again did Walker, as if in 
pantomime, follow my example. How often these changes of nur- 
pose and weapon might have been made I know not, had the cav¬ 
alry not reached the crest meanwhile, and after being exposed to a 
hot artillery fire, and finding that no direct attack upon our batter}^ 
was meditated by the enemy, returned to a sheltered piece of 
ground.” 


MAJ.-GEN. GEO. A. CUSTER. 


4*3 


We catch a glimpse in the account just given of Custer’s char¬ 
acter. He was a man pre-eminently fitted for emergencies. His 
manner was independent; his thoughts accuiately expressed his 
manner. Instead of appealing to a fellow officer for information 
regarding the use of weapons, he would reason it out, even though 
his life depended on the issue. Such a character was bound to 
command respect, and eventually to reach prominence, where judg¬ 
ment and decision played the most active part. 

After the disgraceful rout of Bull Run, Lieut. Custer was tem¬ 
porarily put under the command of a new officer. Brig.-Gen. 
Philip Kearney had been placed in charge of several companies of 
volunteers, including the one over which Custer presided. The 
latter’s admiration for Kearney knew no limit. He describes him 
as the strictest disciplinarian with whom he ever became acquainted. 
It was such a character as Kearney’s that best suited the young 
volunteer. Both of them were fiery, impulsive, bold, even to 
daring, and ruled with an iron hand. Nothing occurring to call 
them into very active work at this time, however, neither learned 
to fully appreciate the other until the fierce battles of later days 
developed their j^eculiar faculties. 

One of the changes that occurred about this time was the 
putting of Gen. McClellan at the head of the armies of the Poto¬ 
mac. McClellan had won a series of brilliant victories as a lower 
rank officer, and was looked upon about this time as the most prom¬ 
ising of any the army could furnish. How well he succeeded in 
retaining the good opinion of himself held by the President and the 
American people, is only too widely known. Custer, however, 
loved the man as he never did another superior officer. Indeed, he 
had reason to esteem him thus. It was McClellan who first gave 
the ambitious lieutenant an opportunity to rise. Custer had been 
out on a perilous reconnoitering expedition, in which he had mani¬ 
fested that courage, skill, and faithfulness which always distin- 


4H 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


gulshed his career. McClellan was informed of the feat. Shortly 
afterward, being in company with the young lieutenant, he startled 
the latter hy asking him if he W(nild not like a position on his staff. 
Custer says he never felt so grateful to a man in his life. It was 
his first promotion, and to think that the commanding'* general 
would so respectfully solicit his assistance! Of course the offer was 
accepted. Nor did McClellan ever regret his choice. The regard 
for each other grew with time, and during all of the heated discus¬ 
sions between President Lincoln and Gen. McClellan, and even 
after the latter’s downfall, Custer clung to his old chief with con¬ 
stant fidelity. In fact, as one of McClellan’s staff officers, Custer 
was also sent home at the time of McClellan’s retirement. But 
with the opening of the spring campaign the young officer was 
again called to the held. 

In the conflict between McClellan and Johnston, beginning 
with the 3d of May, 1S63, Custer was put in charge of a company 
of cavalry in Hancock’s division. The latter speaks in very high 
terms of the young man. In describing the battle officially, Han¬ 
cock says: “ I now placed the artillery on the crest of the hill, in 
front of the enemy’s work at short range, deployed skirmishers on 
the right and left of the road, and sent the Fifth Wisconsin, pre¬ 
ceded by skirmishers under command of Major Larabee, and fol¬ 
lowed by the Sixth Maine, in column of assault across the dam 
and into the work, Lieut. Custer, Fifth Regular Cavalry, volunteer¬ 
ing, and leading the way on horseback.” 

Capt. Frederick Whittaker, in speaking of Custer’s appear¬ 
ance at this time, thus describes him: 

“A queer figure Custer then was, according to the accounts of 
eye witnesses. One officer took him for a dashing newspaper cor¬ 
respondent, out to see the fun. He wore an old slouch hat and 
cavalry jacket, with no marks of rank, the jacket flying ojDen, 
while his muddy boots did not look to be worth more than a dollar. 


\ 



4IS 


INDIAN CHIEF FORBIDDING PASSAGE OF TRAIN 




















































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































4i6 frontiersmen, pioneers, and scouts. 

His hair was beginning to grow long, and aided his careless dress 
in giving him a slouchy appearance; but even then there was some¬ 
thing peculiar about him that made people ask, ‘ Who is that young 
fellow?”’ 

In the “Seven Days’ Fight,” known in the war history as one 
of the bloodiest and most hotly contested of that period, Custer 
took a conspicuous part. In fact, it was during this struggle that 
the heroism of the young Lieutenant won for him the admiration 
of McClellan, and gave him the position previously mentioned, on 
the latter’s staff. Custer and Bowen were particularly noted, 
during this fight, for their brilliant cavalry dashes, which invariably 
proved successful. 

But to follow the hero of this sketch through every battle, 
from one step to another, would make necessary a much more ex¬ 
tended account of his life than it is here designed to give. We must 
be content at gleaning the results of his work in the army, and 
then be led more accurately through the manifold experiences of 
later years. It was at the battle of Aldie, when Kilpatrick con¬ 
fronted Stuart, of Confederate cavalry fame, that Custer won his 
star. Kilpatrick, “ the man who could get in and out of more 
scrapes than any man in the Union,” according to Chaplain 
McCabe, found Custer just such a spirit as he liked. In this charge 
against Stuart’s cavalr}^, it took the most heroic action to carry 
through the bold scheme of the leader. When the order had been 
given to charge, Custer dashed out in front of the companies and 
cried, “Come on, boys; follow me.” With a shout, the cavalry 
put spurs to their horses, and rushed to the conflict with their in¬ 
domitable leader. Kilpatrick and Douty both fell at the first on¬ 
slaught, but the boy commander, waving his broad-brimmed hat, 
and cheering the men to action, accomplished a complete rout of 
Stuart’s forces, doing incalculable good to the Union cause. When 
Gen. Pleasanton witnessed and heard of the action of Custer, as the 


MAJ.-GEN. GEO. A. CUSTER. 


^^7 

highest officer in command of the cavalry, he recommended the 
young man for advancement. Accordingly, there soon arrived at 
Custer’s tent an envelope addressed to “ Brig.-Gen. George A. 
Custer, U. S. Vols.” 



20 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


415 


CHAPTER HI. 

CUSTER AT GETTYSBURG-THE BATTLE OF THE WILDERNESS- 

WINCHESTER AND RICHMOND-COURTSHIP AND MARRIAGE- 

LIFE ON THE WESTERN PLAINS-AT THE TRIAL OF BEL¬ 
KNAP-MAKES ENEMIES-GRANT REMOVES HIM FROM HIS 

COMMAND-FIGHTS THE INDIANS UNDER SITTING BULL- 

GIVES HIS LIFE IN PROTECTION OF THE FRONTIER. 

Gen. Kilpatrick had been put in charge of the Third Cavalry 
Division. Custer commanded one of the brigades. The order was 
given for the cavalry to move from Hanover to Gettysburg, and 
to put Custer in the advance. It was here, perhaps, at the famous 
Gettysburg conflict, that George Armstrong Custer won his 
greatest laurels—at least up to this time, July, 1863. He met the 
famous Wade Hampton, and routed him. He led his confident 
men upon numerous charges, ever displaying sagacity, tact, and 
great daring. With the cry, “Come on, boys. I’ll lead you!” he 
would dash into Stuart or Hampton, or capture a battery, cutting 
and slashing with glittering steel, until the enemy soon learned to 
think that where the young, golden-haired, gaudily-attired brigadier 
led, victory was sure to follow. 

With the close of the battle of Gettysburg the fighting for a 
portion of the forces by no means ceased. Kilpatrick kept his men 
moving, harassing the enemy, and gaining ground wherever pos¬ 
sible. After the Gettysburg campaign came a season of rest. The 


MAJ.-GEN. GEO. A. CUSTER. 


419 


Army of the Potomac, in charge of Meade, lay watching Lee, 
afraid to move. Not until September did Meade conclude to bring 
on an action; and accordingly he sent infantry and cavalry to the 
Rapidan River, between the forks of which the main body of Lee’s 
army lay. The outposts and skirmishers of the enemy were 
driven before the oncoming Northerners, until the Rapidan was 
reached. In all the skirmishes Custer took an active part, never 
happier, apparently, than when pursuing a band of rebels. Especi¬ 
ally in the battle of Brandy Station did the cavalry do excellent 
work. Capt. Whittaker, in his “Life of Custer,” gives the follow¬ 
ing anecdote connected with this period. It was published in the 
Detroit Evening News., by one of Custer’s “ boys ”: 

“At Brandy Station, Va.,” says the correspondent, “ during 
Meade’s fall back, Custer and cavalry brought up the rear, and all 
soldiers know it is the worst place on God’s footstool to cover a re¬ 
treat. To allow the infantry ample time to cross the Rappahan¬ 
nock the cavalry kept fooling around, with an average of 10,000 
rebs on all sides of them. Once when a lull had seemed to come 
with an ominous stillness, some one remarked: ‘ Hello! look ahead!’ 
and sure enough, about 5,000 rebs were suddenly seen to be massed 
in our front, and right in the ^ath we must travel if we ever 
saw ‘ the girls we left behind us? Custer was sitting on his horse 
at the head of the regiment, the Fifth Cavalry. He took one look 
of about ten seconds, then snatched off his hat, raised up in his stir¬ 
rups, and yelled: ‘ Boys of Michigan, there are some people be¬ 
tween us and home; I’m going home, who else goes?’ Suffice it 
to say, we all went. Gen. Alger, then colonel of our regiment, can 
vouch for our flying movements as we followed Custer, with his 
bare head and golden locks, and long, straight sabre, putting the 
very devil into the old Fifth Cavalry, until a clear track was before 
us. When out of the woods, up came Kilpatrick, and sung out: 
‘ Custer, what ails you ? ’ His reply was: ‘ Oh, nothing, only we 


420 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


want to cook coffee on the Yank side of the Rappahannock.’ ” 

The story of the brave warrior’s life would not be complete 
did we neglect to give that portion of it which shows us the tender¬ 
ness of his heart, as well as the steel-hardened surface. We refer 
to his courtship and marriage. So romantic, and yet beautifully 
real is this picture that we are lost in admiration as much as when 
we behold him, mounted on his foaming steed, hat in hand, locks 
flowing to the breeze, leading his brave soldiers into the fiercest of 
the battle. 

When a mere boy, attending school at Monroe, Mich., about 
which reference has been made, he accidentally met the maiden 
who was afterward to share his joys, his honors, and the hard¬ 
ships of martial life. Her name was Elizabeth Bacon, only daugh¬ 
ter of Judge Daniel S. Bacon. Their first meeting was indeed 
peculiar. The bright-faced young stranger in Monroe was passing 
along the street in front of the Judge’s home. The rosy-cheeked 
maiden of only eight summers hung upon the gate, watching the 
passers-by, and enjoying the music of the birds. As Armstrong 
Custer passed hurriedly along, the maid, with saucy glance, cried 
out: “Hello, you Custer boy.” Not even giving the “Custer 
boy ” time to respond, frightened at her own audacity, the roguish 
girl jumped from the gate, and rushed into the house. But Arm¬ 
strong had caught a glimpse of those laughing eyes, rosebud lips, 
and pretty features—quite enough to j^roduce such an impression 
upon him as never after to be effaced. He vowed a vow that little 
Lizzie Bacon should some day be Mrs. Custer! A very bold thing 
for a boy to do, you say; but the sequel shows how faithfully that 
vow was kept. 

Of course months flew by, and Armstrong Custer never more 
than caught a glimpse of his future happiness, yet her image was 
in his heart. The time came when he should leave Monroe. He 
went out into the unknown world. He passed through his experi- 


MAJ.-GEN. GEO. A. CUSTER. 


42 


ence as pedagogue; was duly installed as cadet at West Point; 
finished his military training, and fought a year or so in the rebel¬ 
lion, and now, upon a furlough, he is permitted to return to Monroe, 
where one evening at a party, the gallant young Lieutenant was re¬ 
introduced to a beautiful maiden of seventeen,—Miss Bacon. 

“ I think I have met you once before. Miss Bacon,” said the 
young officer, smiling. “ Indeed!” replied the young lady. “ I do 
not remember of ever having an introduction before.” “Yes,” 
continued the Lieutenant, “ it was about eight years ago. I was 
passing in front of your house, you were swinging upon the gate, 
and cried out, ‘Hello, you Custer boy.’ Wasn’t that introduction 
enough?” Of course Miss Bacon could only blush at the thought 
of her audacity, and make an apology for her rudeness. Little she 
thought, perhaps, how needless apologies were for that act. 

The ice was broken, and Lieut. Custer, while he remained in 
Monroe, tried very hard to launch his boat out into the stream, but 
the Judge’s daughter was by no means anxious to accompany him. 
She had heard that he dissipated somewhat, as most army officers 
do, and her Presbyterian training prevented any associations of 
that character. In kict, young Custer had learned to drink a little 
too freely at times, although, of course, very careful not to let his 
relations and friends know of it, as far as it was possible to prevent 
it. But what do not young ladies hear of their suitors? 

Foiled in his first winter’s campaign at the Judge’s residence, 
he again returned to the Army of the Potomac, where new laurels 
were won, and higher honors conferred. At the next furlough 
“ Capt.” Custer visited Monroe, and of course at once became a 
lion in society. He flirted first with this one and then with that, in 
a vain endeavor to excite envy in the heart of Lizzie Bacon. 

About this time occurred a change in his habits which proved 
one of the most important events of his life. He had been out on 
a social spree with some young fellows, and had imbibed too freely. 


422 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


Not thinking that his intoxication would be noticed by the town 
folk, he started homeward. Miss Bacon, looking out of her window, 
saw the gallant Captain reeling along the street in a very ungrace¬ 
ful manner. She became completely disgusted, and it took many 
months, too, for that disgust to be clianged into admiration. As 
soon as Custer reached his sister’s house she observed his condi¬ 
tion, and without making any remarks, asked him to repair to her 
room. He consented. In a short time Mrs. Reed, who always 
possessed remarkable power over him, followed him into the room, 
locked the door, and plead with her brother, with a heart full of love 
and sympathy, that he would never again touch the damning cup. 
For an hour or more that conference lasted, until Armstrong Custer 
was completely subdued and sobered. He there, before God, 
promised his sister that another drop of the fiery fluid should never 
be placed to his lips. That jyrorjiise was kept to the letter as long 
as he lived. 

It was not long after this reformation that Capt. Custer 
became more intimately acquainted with Miss Bacon, and finally 
succeeded in winning her affection most completely. Now a new 
obstacle arose—it was Judge Daniel S. Bacon ! a formidable barrier, 
as every young man knows. Enough in this case to have daunted 
a less determined spirit. But Custer made up his mind to gain his 
prize, and nothing should prevent it. 

The Judge forbade his coming to the house. His daughter 
should never marry a young army officer with no means, and un¬ 
certain fame. She should not even correspond with him-. This 
was indeed a cruel blow, but the young couple agreed to abide by 
the Judge’s decision, and wait patiently for future changes. Custer 
fortunately had an intimate friend who was also a friend of Miss 
Bacon’s, and through this medium a knowledge of each other’s 
feelings and intentions was kept. It was not until early in 1864 
that Custer, now General, the pet of society and pride of his country. 


MAJ.-GBN. GEO. A. CUSTER. 


423 

fairly overcame Judge Bacon’s opposition, and gained his consent 
to the marriage. 

Gen. Custer considered it the greatest triumph of his life. He 
had withstood and conquered thousands of enemies upon the field 
of battle; he had stepped up over the heads of many older officers 
to a position near the top; he had become the victor in the inward 
struggle against appetite; but to conquer and subdue Judge Daniel 
S. Bacon, when fighting for the hand of the latter’s lovely daughter, 
was the great triumph of his life. 

On the 9th day of February, 1864, Gen. George A. Custer 
was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Bacon, the Rev. Mr. 
Boyd officiating. 

The rebellion was drawing to a close. In the last grand tri¬ 
umph of Grant over Lee, the subject of this sketch played an im¬ 
portant part. Under Sheridan, Custer had been following close on 
the heels of the enemy, ever and anon engaging in a fierce strug¬ 
gle, but like his indomitable chief, never being defeated. And now 
Lee had been driven to Appomattox Court House. His case was 
hopeless. The great Confederate leader at last concluded to sur¬ 
render. As Custer’s brigade of cavalry had followed him, perhaps 
more closely than any other part of the army, it was to this com¬ 
mander that Lee concluded to send his intentions to give up the 
struggle. Accordingly the morning of the 9th of April brought 
a flag of truce from Lee’s headquarters, to the tent of Gen. George 
A. Custer, with the conclusion of the former regarding the dis¬ 
continuance of the struggle. It was the first official notification 
that tne Army of the Potomac had of this important decision. The 
flag of truce referred to was an old towel, and is stiH in the posses¬ 
sion of Gen. Custer’s family. 

After fighting for his country, and helping to save it from di¬ 
vision, Gen. Custer offered his services for the Western plains. He 
was accordingly placed on the list of regular army officers, with a 


424 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

rank necessarily lower than he had held during the latter part of the 
war. But he loved the excitement of battle. He was anxious to 
be sent to any field where duty called, and an opportunity for van¬ 
quishing foes existed. How well he succeeded on the plains, most 
of our readers know. He became the leading Indian fighter in the 
field. Inexperienced at first, he made no fatal mistake. When 
Hancock inaugurated his war upon the Southern Indians, Custer 
assisted more than any one else in bringing that to a successful issue. 

One circumstance occurred which might be considered at first 
thought, to be a spot upon the career otherwise so nobly lived. It 
was his being suspended from service during part of ’67 and ’68. 
The charge was that he left his fort and marched his men to anoth¬ 
er post without permission; that it was for the purpose of visiting 
his family; and that in so doing he was subject to discipline. The 
whole thing was propagated by personal enemies, who succeeded 
in getting him out of service for one year. However, before the 
time was up, Gens. Sheridan, Sherman, and all the best officers of 
the field, petitioned for his return, which was of course granted. 
He thereby gained a greater honor by having such recognition of 
his services, than he could possibly have obtained, had he never 
been removed. 

His success in the Washita Valley, the Yellowstone campaign, 
and many other notable expeditions, are so well known as scarcely 
to need repetition. And now we come to the sad and tragic termi¬ 
nation of Gen. Custer’s career. 

It was the year 1876. The Indians had been committing ter¬ 
rible depredations upon the northern frontier. Sitting Bull, with 
several thousand warriors, had been wreaking fearful revenge upon 
innocent settlers and whites, wherever found. It was determined, 
if possible, to put an end to this, so quickiy and emphatically, that 
this section would never after be harassed by the bloodthirsty chief 
of the Sioux. As the most successful Indian fighter of his day, 


MAJ.-GEN. GEO. A. CUSTER. 


425 


Custer was selected to command an expedition which should sweep 
over the regions disturbed, carrying destruction to the wigwam of 
every hostile savage. Preparations were at once begun at Fort 
Lincoln, by the commander. Before these were completed, there 
came a telegram from Washington, demanding Custer’s presence 
as a witness on the famous Belknap impeachment case, which was 
then before Congress. The General knew very little about Bel¬ 
knap’s tloings, and insisted upon being permitted to remain at home 
and perfect j^reparations for his campaign. “ The powers that were” 
said, “ You must come, ” and he was obliged to yield. 

There upon that witness stand, the brave Indian-fighter and 
Christian soldier told what he knew of this disgraceful case. 
Being upon the frontier, he had learned some facts that others did 
not know, yet he was by no means an eager witness against 
Belknap. He knew that his testimony would make him enemies, 
and thus it proved. Gen. Grant, then President, considered, 
naturally perhaps, all witnesses against the vSecretary as in the ring 
that was working for the overthrow of the administration. He 
therefore set Custer down as one of his opposers, nor would he be 
convinced to the contrary. The latter repeatedly sought an inter¬ 
view with the President, but was snubbed, and denied that favor. 
Had Grant ever permitted the frank countenance and free explana¬ 
tion of the General to throw their combined light upon his con¬ 
nection with the case, no doubt the trouble of after months would 
have been avoided. But with that invincible determination to an¬ 
nihilate all foes, which ever characterized the great commander of 
our armies, he spurned Custer’s appeal for a conference, and 
resolved upon the latter’s humiliation. 

The trial over, Custer started in great haste for Fort Lincoln. 
At Chicao-o a telegfram from the Commander-in-chief of the 
American armies, sent at the instance of Grant, stopped the young 
officer until he should receive further commands. They finally 


426 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


came, ordering him to repair to Fort Lincoln, but depriving him of 
the command of the expedition. The shock was almost over¬ 
whelming to the young, successful, and ambitious officer. No 
cause was assigned —that was j^lain enough to those who under¬ 
stood the feelings of the President. Custer, humiliated beyond 
expression, telegraphed the following to Gen. Grant: 

“To His Excellency the President: 

“ I have seen your order, transmitted through the General of 
the Army, directing that I be not permitted to accompany the ex¬ 
pedition tibout to move against the hostile Indians. As my entire 
regiment forms a part of the proposed expedition, and as I am the 
senior officer of the regiment on duty in this Department, I respect¬ 
fully, but most earnestly, request that while not allowed to go in 
command of the expedition, I may be permitted to serve with my 
regiment in the field. 

“ I appeal to you as a soldier, to spare me the humiliation of 
seeing my regiment march to meet the enemy, and I not share 
in its dangers. (Signed) 

“ G. A. Custer, 

“ Bvt. Maj.-Gen. U. S. Army.” 

Gen. Grant concluded to “ grant ” the request. Custer was 
permitted to join the staff of Gen. Terry, who had now been placed 
in charge of the expedition, to fight as a subordinate officer. 
Terry was exceedingly glad to have this notorious Indian-fighter 
with him. In fact, the two men were ever great friends, the 
superior officer seeking advice from his inferior, and the latter, with 
marked respect, offering such suggestions as he had by much 
experience learned would prove beneficial. 

We have not time to follow the forces of Terry and other de¬ 
tachments in their meandering march for Sitting Bull. Suffice it 






































































































































































































































































































































428 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


to say that Custer, in command of his regiment, discovered the 
whereabouts of the great chief to be in the valley of the Little Big 
Horn River, whither he proceeded with all possible haste. 

The morning of June 25 opened bright and glorious upon the 
Western prairies. The long line of wigwams, stretching down 
the river for a distance of three or four miles, presented a very 
pleasant sight to the Indians as they leisurely paddled their canoes 
along the peaceful stream. There was no thought of danger in that 
camp. Their great chief v/as with them, and he had succeeded in 
terrifying all foes. The white- man would scarcely dare to attack 
that host of painted warriors, especially entrenched as they were, 
behind their natural fortifications. But hark ! the sound of horses’ 
hoofs are heard. The quick ear of the savage catches the first 
indication of approaching danger. Directly the outposts come 
dashing into the village, with the news of a thousand horses, 
ridden by white warriors, equipped for battle, coming to capture 
the village ! What consternation ! What utter confusion ! But 
there was a cool head and a mighty arm to quiet the frightened sava¬ 
ges. Sitting Bull was there. He immediately arranged his warriors 
for the contest, determined to resist to death. 

On came the marshaled cavalry-men ! Custer from one 
direction, Reno from another, and Benteen from still another— 
almost completely surrounded the village. The plan of attack was 
skillfully laid, but alas ! how unskillfully executed. Custer had 
marched to the lower end of the village, where he at once encoun¬ 
tered a large force under Sitting Bull, himself. Maj. Reno and also 
Benteen had been ordered to march directly down the village, 
joining Custer on the south. This they failed to do, and upon that 
failure hung the destiny of many scores of brave souls. Reno was 
repulsed and retreated. Benteen joined Reno, and behind fortifi¬ 
cations, the two secured themselves until poor Custer with his 
entire command, was massacred by the barbarous wretches urder 


MAJ.-GEN. GEO. A. CUSTER. 


439 

Sitting Bull. The two officers referred to say they did not hear 
the firing of Custer’s men. They did not realize his situation, else 
aid might have been rendered. Be that as it may, had they obeyed 
the orders of their General the massacre would undoubtedly have 
been avoided, and Custer living to-day. 

The circumstances attending that last noble struggle are too 
harrowing for recital. One man, an Indian scout, escaped to tell 
the sad story. Each company of men stood their ground against 
immediate foes, striking death as long as breath was in their bodies. 
And Custer? The ones upon the opposite side who witnessed that 
heroic defense, have told how he cheered on his men, how he fought 
like a very tiger, using his pistol until it was no longer possible to 
load it, then drawing the gleaming sabre, and striking terror to all 
within his reach. He is supposed to be the only man who used the 
sword. An eye witness says that he saw three Indians fall beneath 
that heavy stroke, and then a ball piercing the side of the gallant 
chief, he was obliged to sink, never to rise again. 

All honor to such a man ! All honor to the brave cavalier, 
the Christian soldier, the heroic chief. 

His life was unsullied by acts of pollution. His character 
such as distinguishes the true patriot, fighting for his country in the 
fear of God, and for the sake of his fellow men. A nation bowed 
her head in recognition of the sad tragedy that shut out forever 
from the face of man the glory of such a life. A nation weeps to¬ 
day over the ashes of her distinguished son, and will ever hold in 
grateful remembrance the services and name of George Armstrong 
Custer. 

An elegant memorial in the shape of a monument, of Mon- 
tello granite, is about to be taken to Fort Keogh, M. T., on the 
North Pacific Railway, where it will be placed in the Military 
Cemetery. 


430 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


On one side of the monument the following inscription is cut: 


To THE Officers and Soldiers 
KILLED, 

OR WHO DIED OF WOUNDS RECEIVED IN ACTION 
IN THE 

Territory of Montana, 

WHILE CLEARING 

The District of the Yellowstone 

OF HOSTILE INDIANS. 


On the other three sides are cut the names of thirty-nine offi¬ 
cers and privates, with regiment and comjDany to which each be¬ 
longed, and the place and date of the action resulting in their 
death. 














i 


\ 


















% 


/ 




BUFFALO BILL. 
[Hon, W, F, Cody,1 


432 







LIFE OF BUFFALO BILL 

{HON, W, F. CODT,) 


CHAPTER I. 

BIRTH-FAMILY CONNECTIONS-TRAPPING-HORSEMANSHIP- 

USE OF THE LASSO-CODY’s FATHER ATTACKED-MEMBER 

OF LEGISLATURE AT LAWRENCE-SCHOOLBOY PTGHT-THE 

FATHER DIES-BILL OFFERS FAMILY SUPPORT-KILLS HIS 

FIRST INDIAN AT TWELVE YEARS. 

“Buffalo Bill ” is the nickname of William F. Cody. Hun¬ 
dreds and even thousands of readers know something of “Buffalo 
Bill,” while comparatively few know who William F. Cody is, 
but they are one and the same person. Throughout this narrative 
we shall use the more familiar name. 

Buffalo Bill was born in Scott county, Iowa, February 26, 
1S45. His father’s name was Isaac Cody, and his mother’s Mary 
Ann. He had two older sisters, Martha and Julia; and one older 
brother, Samuel, while there were in the family three younger 
sisters, Eliza, Nellie, and Mary, and one younger brother, Charles. 

At the time of his birth his parents lived on a farm called the 
“Napsinekee Place,” but when Bill was about seven years old they 

4?,3 



434 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

removed to the little village of LeClaire, on the Mississippi River, 
about fifteen miles above Davenport. 

Soon afterward his father removed to the Walnut Grove Farm 
in Scott county. Here Bill found great pleasure in trapping quails, 
which were very plentiful in that country, and thus in early life 
acquired a taste for trapping, which did much toward determining 
his after course in life. 

In 1852 Mr. Cody disposed of his farm and determined to 
remove to Kansas, which was then a wild territory. His departure 
was due in a measure to the accidental death of his son Samuel, 
who was killed by a horse he was riding, rearing and falling back¬ 
ward upon him, producing fatal internal injuries. The removal 
was made in a carriage accompanied by three wagons. The route 
lay across Iowa and Missouri, and the way was full of interest to 
all, especially for Bill, who discovered something new and exciting 
every day. 

Mr. Cody traded for a horse, which the owner said had but one 
fault, and that was, he was a racer and had run away with every 
one who had owned him. At a Missouri village, where they 
stopped fora short time, they arranged for a race,and the new horse 
proved to be a sweepstakes and took all the money that was offered. 
The family arrived at Weston, a town on the line between Mis¬ 
souri and Kansas, where Bill’s uncle, Elijah Cody, lived, and carried 
on a store. Here the family remained, moving upon one of Elijah’s 
farms, while Bill’s father crossed the line, and established a trading 
post at the Kickapoo Indian Agency. He bought two ponies and 
gave them to Bill, who now thought he was a millionaire indeed, 
and would ride one of the ponies and accompany his father to and 
from his trading post. 

One day a company of eight men came into the vicinity of 
Mr. Cody’s trading post, driving a herd of several hundred horses 
which they had taken wild in California and driven across the 


BUFFALO BILL. 


435 


plains. One of the men watched Bill as he was tryin<4 to pet one 
of his ponies into siibmissiveness. 

“Here, my lad,” he said, “ I can break that pony for yon.” 

So, making a slip noose, he passed it over the pony’s nose and 
springing lightly upon his back, dashed away over the prairie and 
kept the pony upon a run until he was completely exhausted. 
Riding up to where Bill aiul his father stood he sprang to the 
ground, passed the lariat to Bill, and said: 

“ lie is all right now. Get on and ride him.” 

While Bill went away to care for his pony, his father tlrew the 
stranger out into conversation, and found he had been a great 
wanderer, that he had been -in Australia, had served a time as a 
circus rider, had spent several years in California, hunting and cap¬ 
turing wild horses, and was then on his way to Weston, Missouri, 
to visit his uncle, Elijah Cody. 

“What is your name?” asked Mr. Cody in surprise. 

“Horace Billings.” 

“ Then you are my nephew, the son of my sister Sophia. I 
am Isaac Cody, brother of Elijah Cody!”^ 

The discovery was mutually pleasant, and Bill was called up 
anti introduced to his cousin Horace. Henceforward they were 
fast anti inseparable friends, the one being, however, only a lad 
about nine years old, while the other was a tall, handsome man, 
measuring in height six feet and two inches. 

Billings was an accomplishetl horseman, and took especial pride 
and pleasure in teaching the boy the art of horsemanship, together 
with the use of the lasso. 

The United vStates had lost about three hundred horses on the 
Kansas plains by stampede, and a reward of ten dollars a head was 
offered for their capture and return to Fort Leavenworth. Billings 
and Bill roamed the plains, chasing these semi-wild horses, and young 
Cody soon was proficient in the science and art of horsemanship. 





























































































































































































































































BUFFALO BILL, 


437 


In the meantime the Indian boys who visited his father’s trad- 
ing post, had taught him the use of the bow and arrow, and from 
them he had learned to talk in the Kickapoo language. 

In 1854 the bill known as the “ Enabling Act of Kansas Ter¬ 
ritory ” passed Congress. Immediately thousands and thousands 
of people poured into Kansas to pre-empt land claims. Among 
these were hundreds of Missourians who were very loud in their 
declarations that Kansas should be made a slave State, as was 
^lissouri. Excitement ran high. The cpiestion was the one theme 
of conversation wherever a company of men were assembled. At 
one of these impromptu gatherings Mr. Cody was called upon for 
his views. He was quite a politician, and in Iowa was considered 
a good stump speaker. 

He got iqDon a box and began to express his views in mild 
language, but took the ground that slavery ought not to be extended 
or meddled with in any shape. This position was displeasing to 
many, who heard him, and, encouraged by the shouts of opposition, 
a rowdy jumped upon the box where Mr. Cody stood, and drawing 
a large bowie knife plunged it into the speaker’s breast twice, and 
would have killed him, had not some of the more humane spec¬ 
tators interfered in his behalf. In this way the father of Buffalo 
Bill lost the first blood in Kansas in favor of freedom. 

Finally Mr. Cody, after recovering from his wounds, was com¬ 
pelled to flee from the country in the clothes of his wife, as a dis¬ 
guise, to escape death by hanging on account of his anti-slavery 
sentiments. He removed to Grasshopper Falls, thirty-five miles 
west of Fort Leavenworth, but was pursued even there by his 
enemies, who would have surprised and killed him, had not Bill 
discovered their intentions, and, in a wild ride of many miles, 
mounted on one of his ponies, most of the time hotly pursued by 
the would-be lynchers, warned his father in time for him to escape 
to Lawrence, where he was made a member of the first legislature 


43^ FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS^ 


of Kansas, and assisted in organizing the territory into a State. 

When Bill was but ten years old, he hired out to Mr. Russell, 
of Leavenworth, to herd cattle, and received for his services the 
munificent sum of twenty-five dollars per month, besides his board. 
At the end of two months he went back home, carrying with him 
one hundred silver half dollars, his salary as cattle herder. His 
mother received him joyfully, although he had run away to accept 
the position, not being able to get his mother’s consent. He after¬ 
ward spent seven years in the service of the same man, in the sev¬ 
eral capacities of pony express, wagon master, cattle driver, etc. 

About this time he got into a difficulty with a schoolmate on 
account of having the same little girl for a sweetheart. Bill and 
his sweetheart would spend the hours of intermission from study at 
school in building bowers for a mimic home. The other boy took 
delight in tearing these houses down as fast as Bill could build them. 
The finale was a school boy fight in which Bill used a dirk, inflicting 
an ugly but not dangerous wound upon his rival’s leg. To avoid 
the punishment he knew to be in store for him when the teacher 
discovered his act, he fled, and did not stop until he intercepted a 
government train of freight wagons which he had noticed creeping 
slowly along over the prairie. Fortunately he was acquainted with 
one of the teamsters, and in him found a sympathizing friend, who, 
when camji was made for the night, mounted a horse and taking 
Bill up, rode back to Mrs. Codjds and obtained permission of her 
to take the young fugitive on his trip, to be gone about forty days. 
She finally agreed to the arrangement. When Bill returned, he 
found his mother had succeeded in pacifying the father of the boy 
he had wounded. Even Bill made friends with him, and the friend¬ 
ship yet remains between the two, a lasting monument of the gentle 
and benign influence of a mother’s love and foresight. It ought 
to be added, to make the story complete, a la the modern novel, 
that, when Bill grew to manhood, he went back to his boyhood 


BUFFALO BILL. 


439 


home and claimed in marriage the hand of his young sweetheart, 
for whom he had risked and sacrificed so much, but truth compels 
us to say that he did not, and she is now the happy wife of another 
man, and lives in Chicago. When it is remembered that at this 
time Buffalo Bill was only eleven years of age, this episode appears 
in its proper light, as a leading event of his life. 

In April, 1857, Mr. Cody, father of Bill, died at home of kid¬ 
ney disease. Bill then determined to follow the plains for a living, 
and to obtain means to assist his mother in caring for the family. 

The next month he found employment with Mr. Russell and 
his partners, and started for Salt Lake City with a herd of cattle 
for the United States troops sent out to fight the Mormons. It was 
on this journey that he received his initiation as an Indian fighter, 
though but twelve years of age! For that reason it is best to give 
an account of the affair in his own language as found in his auto¬ 
biography. (“Life of Buffalo Bill,” p. 57.) 

“Nothing occurred to interrupt our journey until we reached 
Plum Creek, on the South Platte River, thirty-five miles west of 
Old Fort Kearney. We had made a morning drive and had camped 
for dinner. The wagon masters and the majority of the men had 
gone to sleep under the mess wagons. The cattle were being 
guarded by three men, and the cook was preparing dinner. No one 
had an idea that the Indians were anywhere near us. The first 
warning we had was the firing of shots and the whoops and yells 
from a party of them, who, watching us napping, gave us a most 
unwelcome surprise. All the men jumped to their feet and seized 
their guns. They saw in astonishment the cattle running in every 
direction, they having been stampeded by the Indians, who had 
killed the three men who were on day herd duty, and the red devils 
were now charging down on the rest of us. 

“ I then thought of mother’s fear of my falling into the hands 
of the Indians, and I had about made up my mind that such was 


44 ° FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

to be my fate; but when I saw how coolly and determinedly the 
McCarthy brothers were conducting themselves, and giving orders 
to the little band, I became convinced that we would stand the In¬ 
dians off, as the saying is. Our men were all well armed with 
Colt’s revolvers and Mississippi ‘yagers,’ which last, carried a 
bullet and two buckshots. 

“ The McCarthy boys, at the proper moment, gave orders to 
fire upon the advancing enemy. The volley checked them, although 
they returned the compliment, and shot one of our party through 
the leg. Frank McCarthy then sung out, ‘ Boys, make a break for 
the slough yonder, and we can then have the bank for a breast¬ 
work.’ 

“We made a run for the slough, which was only a short dis¬ 
tance off, and succeeded in reaching it safely, bringing with us the 
wounded man. The bank proved to be a very effective breast¬ 
work, affording us good protection. We had been there but a short 
time when Frank McCarthy, seeing that the longer we were cor- 
raled the worse it would be for us, said: 

“‘Well, boys, we will try to make our way back to Fort 
Kearney by wading in the river and keeping the bank for a breast¬ 
work.’ 

“We all agreed that this was the best plan, and accordingly 
proceeded down the river several miles in this way, managing to 
keep the Indians at a safe distance with our guns, until the slough 
made a junction with the Platte River. From there down we 
found the river at times quite deep, and in order to carry the 
wounded man along with us, we constructed a raft of poles for his 
accommodation, and in this way he was transported. 

“ Occasionally the water would be too deep for us to wade, and 
we were obliged to put our weapons on the raft and swim. The 
Indians followed us pretty close, and were continually watching for 
an opportunity to get a good range and give us a raking fire. Cov- 


BUFFALO BILL. 


441 


ering ourselves by keeping well under the bank, we pushed ahead 
as rapidly as possible, and made pretty good progress, the night 
finding us still on our way, and the enemies still on our track. 

“ I being the youngest and the smallest of the party, became 
somewhat tired, and without noticing it, I had fallen behind the 
others for some little distance. It was about ten o’clock and we 
were keeping very quiet and hugging close to the bank, when I 
happened to look up to the moon-lit sky and saw the plumed head 
of an Indian peeping over the bank. Instead of hurrying on and 
alarming the men in a quiet way, I instantly aimed my gun at the 
head and fired. The report rang out sharp and loud on the night 
air, and was immediately followed by an Indian whoop, and the 
next moment about six feet of dead Indian came tumbling into 
the river. I was not only overcome with astonishment, but was 
badly scared, as I could hardly realize what I had done. I expected 
to see the whole force of Indians come down upon us. While I 
was standing thus bewildered, the men who had heard the shot and 
the war whoop, and had seen the Indian take a tumble, came rush¬ 
ing back. 

“‘Who fired that shot?’ cried Frank McCarthy. 

“ ‘I did,’ replied I rather proudly, as my confidence returned, 
and I saw the men coming up. 

“‘Yes, and little Billy has killed an Indian stone dead,—too 
dead to skin,’ said one of the men, who had approached nearer than 
the rest, and had nearly stumbled upon the corpse. From that time 
on I became a hero and an Indian killer. This was of course the 
first Indian I had ever shot, and my exploit created quite a sensation. 

“ The other Indians upon learning what had happened to their 
‘advance guard,’ set up a terrible howling, and fired several volleys 
at us, but without doing any injury, as we were well protected by 
the bank. We resumed our journey down the river and traveled 
all night. We reached Fort Kearney just after reveille —bringing 


442 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS, 

the wounded man with us. The commandant at once ordered a 
company out to endeavor to recapture the cattle from the Indians. 
The troops followed the trail to the head of Plum Creek and there 
abandoned it, without having seen a single red skin. 

“ The company’s agent seeing that there was no further use for 
us in that vicinit}^—as we had lost our cattle and mules—sent us 
back to Fort Leavenworth. On the day I got into Leavenworth, 
sometime in July, I was interviewed for the first time in my life by 
a newspaper reporter, and the next morning I found my name in 
print, as the youngest Indian slayer on the plains. I am candid 
enough to admit I felt very much elated over this notoriety. Again 
and again I read with eager interest the long and sensational 
account of our adventure. The reporter who had thus set me up, 
as I then thought, on the highest pinnacle of fame, was John 
Hutchinson. He now lives in Wichita, Kan.” 



BUFFALO BILL. 


443 


CHAPTER IT. 

PORT LARAMIE AND SALT LAKE CITY- MEETS WILD BILI_ 

GEN. CUSTER DESCRIBES “WILD BILL”-ROBBED BY MOR¬ 
MONS-INDIAN ATTACK-DISABLED-TWENTY-NINE DAYS 

ALONE - INDIANS TAKE PROVISIONS AND FIRE-ARMS - 

FRIENDLY CHIEF-THREATENED BY WOLVES-RESCUED- 

DEATH OF DAVE, FRIEND AND PRESERVER. 

Soon after his return Billy made arrangements to make another 
trip across the i^lains in the capacity of “ extra hand ” to the wagon 
master ot the train, one Lewis Simpson, who had a reputation 
among the plainsmen, that made it perfectly safe for a boy whose 
cause he should espouse, and for this reason Mrs. Cody gave her 
consent to have Billy become assistant of even so desperate a char¬ 
acter as Lew Simpson. We can not wonder though, at her hesita¬ 
tion in having her twelve-year old boy start out on a journey so 
full of perils as a trip across the plains in those days, and which 
should occupy nearly a year. 

It will be of interest to the general reader to know something 
of thft wagon trains that carried freight from Fort Leavenworth to 
Salt Lake City. 

The wagons were huge affairs, capable of carrying three and 
one-half tons of merchandise. They were provided with a double 
canvas cover stretched over bows to protect the freight from rain. 
I’he wagons were drawn by oxen, several yokes of them being 


444 


FRONTIERSMEN. PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


attached to one wagon. Each team had a driver. The train con¬ 
sisted of twenty-five wagons, and of course, twenty-five drivers, 
one wagonmaster who had control of the entire cavalcade, one 
assistant wagonmaster, one “ extra hand,” one night herder, one 
cavallard driver, whose duty it was to drive the loose animals. This 
company was divided into messes of seven persons each, and each 
mess did its own cooking. One of the men would cook, another 
get water, another wood, while another stood guard, and so on, 
each having a particular duty to perform. The entire company 
was heavily armed with revolvers and rifles, and always had their 
weapons handy in case of emergency. The wagonmaster, in the 
language of the plains, was known as the “ bull-wagon boss,” the 
teamsters were known as the “bull-whackers,” and the whole train 
as the “bull outfit.” The company for which Billy was working 
had two hundred and fifty “ outfits,” which consisted of 6,000 
wagons, 75,000 oxen, and 8,000 men. Thus it will be seen that 
the position Billy was called to fill was no mean one, and the wages 
paid, fifty dollars per month in gold, was a prize to be coveted. 

One of the drivers in the train to which he was attached was 
James B. Hickok, known afterward as “ Wild Bill, the Scout of the 
Plains.” The friendship that sprung up between these two men 
never grew cold, but rather increased as the years rolled by, and 
remained until Wild Bill’s untimely and tragic death. We cannot 
do better than just here insert a description of Wild Bill, written 
by the brave and lamented Gen. Custer. 

“ Among the white scouts were numbered some of the most 
noted of their class. The most prominent among them was Wild 
Bill, whose highly varied career was made the subject of an illus¬ 
trated sketch in one of the popular monthly publications several 
years ago. Wild Bill was a strange character, just the one whom 
a novelist would gloat over. He was a plainsman in every sense 
of the word, and yet unlike any other of his class. In person he 



44 «> 


INDIANS FIRST VIEW OF A TRAIN 











































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































44^ FRONTIERSMEN PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


was about six feet, one inch in height, straight as the straightest of 
the warriors whose implacable foe he was. He had broad shoul¬ 
ders, well-formed chest and limbs, and a face strikingly handsome; 
a sliarp, clear, blue eye, which stared you straight in the face when 
in conversation; a finely shaped nose, inclined to be aquiline; a well- 
turned mouth, with lips only partially concealed by a handsome 
moustache. His hair and complexion were those of a perfect 
blonde. The former was worn in uncut ringlets, falling carelessly 
over his powerfully formed shoulders. Whether on foot or on 
horseback, he was one of the most perfect types of physical man¬ 
hood I ever saw. Of his courage there could be no doubt; it had 
been brought to the test on too many occasions to admit of a doubt. 
His skill in the use of the pistol and rifle was unerring, while his 
deportment was exactly the opposite of what might be expected 
from a man of his surroundings. It was entirely free from all 
bluster or bravado. He seldom spoke of himself unless requested 
to do so. His conversation, strange to say, never bordered either 
on the vulgar or blasphemous. His influence among the frontiers¬ 
men was unbounded, his word was law; and many are the personal 
quarrels and disturbances which he has checked among his com¬ 
rades by his simple announcement that ‘ this has gone far enough,’— 
if need be, followed by the ominous warning that when persisted in 
or renewed, the quarreler ‘ must settle it .with me.’ 

“ Wild Bill was anything but a quarrelsome man; yet no one 
but himself could enumerate the many conflicts in which he had 
been engaged, and which had almost always resulted in the death 
of his adversary. I have a personal knowledge of at least half a 
dozen rnen whom he had at various times killed, one of these being 
at the time a member of my command. Yet he always escaped 
unhurt. 

“ On the plains every man openly carries his belt with its 
invariable appendages, knife and revolver, often two of the latter. 


BUFFALO BILL. 


447 


Wild Bill always carried two handsome ivory-handled revolvers of 
the larj^e size ; he was never seen without them. Yet in all the 
many affairs of this kind in which Wild Bill lias performed a part, 
and which have come to my knowled^^e, there was not a single 
instance in which the verdict of twelve fair-minded men would not 
have been pronounced in his favor.” 

Nothing of especial interest occurred to the train until it 
arrived within a few miles of Green River in the Rocky Mount¬ 
ains. Here the company was surprised by Joe Smith and a squad of 
Danites from the Alormons, who were permitted to ride into the 
camp while at noonday halt, as the wagonmaster and drivers 
supposed they were a lot of Californians going East. The men 
were given one wagon, some provisions, and their arms and six 
yoke of oxen, and told to put back to Fort Bridger. They could 
do nothing but obey. They tarried, however, and saw the entire 
train of twenty-four wagons, and the loads of hard tack, bacon, 
ammunition and other supplies for Gen. Johnston’s army, burned 
to ashes. 

They finally reached Fort Bridger, but there were gathered 
three or four hundred men in the employ of the Freight Company, 
besides the garrison of the United States troops. Winter now set 
in, and provisions were scarce. The men were reduced to three- 
quarter rations, and then .to one-half rations, and finally, to one- 
quarter. As a last resort they killed and ate the oxen, which by 
this time had been reduced to skin and bones, and as these failed to 
supply the demand, mules were also killed and portioned out to 
the half-famished men and soldiers. When mules and oxen were 
gone, the wood for fuel was brought from the mountains by men, 
twenty or more of whom would drag a wagon loaded with fuel. 
Spring, though, came at last, and with it a move to Fort Laramie. 
Here another train was organized to return to Fort Leavenworth. 
In this trij), Billy, Simpson and his assistant, rode ahead of the 


44^ FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


train to overtake one that had a day’s start. These three were 
attacked by forty Indians. Simpson immediately dismounted and 
had the other two do the same. The mules were killed, and 
behind these the three lay all day and all night, keeping the 
Indians at bay with their rifles and revolvers, as they were armed 
only with bows and arrows. However, the assistant wagonmaster 
was severely wounded in the shoulder by an arrow. Next day 
about lo o’clock the train arrived, and the Indians suddenly 
departed, leaving on the field four dead companions. 

Billy finally reached home in safety, to the great joy of his 
mother and sisters. One of his sisters, in his absence, had married, 
and was living at Leavenworth. 

The next move Billy made, was to join a party of trappers 
who intended to trap for beaver and otter, and kill wolves for their 
pelts. This business proved unprofitable, and was abandoned after 
two months. He then returned home and remained about three 
months, attending the neighborhood school. 

When spring came again, he joined a party bound for Pike’s 
Peak, the then newly discovered gold field. Two months of 
prospecting was all he could stand, and he then concluded he was 
not cut out for a miner. 

The next business in which he engaged, was pony express 
rider. This was at that time a new business on the plains. He 
was obliged to ride forty-five miles in three hours, and change 
horses three times. He continued in this work two months or 
more, during which time he never failed to make his trips accord¬ 
ing to schedule. It was very hard on him, and he gave it up at 
the urgent solicitation of his mother. 

His restless spirit could not be satisfied with the seemingly 
humdrum life of a farmer, and he soon after went on a trapping 
expedition to the Republican River and tributaries. His only 
companion was Dave Herrington. They were very successful, and 


BUFFALO BILL. 


449 


had many trophies of their skill, when Bill slipped on the ice and 
broke his leg just above the ankle. This left them in anything 
but an enviable situation. Dave played the surgeon and rather 
skillfully set the broken bone. The prospect was dreary enough. 
They were one hundred and twenty-five miles from the nearest 
settlement. Rather than remain in that dreary region through the 
winter, Bill persuaded Dave to go to the settlement, get an ox- 
team, return, and take him’ home. This he consented to do, and 
left on his long tramp, after providing fuel and food to last his 
friend Bill until he should return. This he expected to do in 
about twenty days. The house where Bill now lay was a “ dug- 
out,” a hole made in the ground, covered with poles, upon which 
were placed grass, leaves, and other similar materials. To be thus 
situated was bad enough for a well man, and far worse for a boy 
in Bill’s condition. The days dragged slowly by until twelve of 
them had been passed. One day at this time. Bill was awakened 
from sleep by some one standing by his bed and touching his arm. 
He opened his eyes, and saw looking into his face, the hideous 
outline of a huge Indian warrior, all painted and bedecked for war. 
Through the door other Indians were crowding, and outside the 
dug-out, Bill heard the tramping of horses and the voices of those 
who could not get into the little room. He knew they were on 
the war-path and would not hesitate to put him to death after 
subjecting him to such torture as their devilish ingenuity could invent. 
They were not in a hurry, however, to execute their plans against 
him, but proceeded to investigate the hut and contents. . They 
very deliberately set about cooking what food they wanted and 
could find at hand, taking especial pains to use all his tea, coffee, 
and sugar. He watched their movements with intense interest, 
but could find no way by which he could escape. Finally, an old 
Indian came in, and Bill was rejoiced to see that he was a chief 
whom he had met before. The recognition was mutual. The 




450 


iXJjlANb IN TOWN 











































































































































BUFFALO BILL, 


45 i 

Indian chief,—Ram-in-the-facc, could speak a little English, and 
Bill could speak a little Indian language, and he thus succeeded in 
securing the old chiePs attention and sympathy. He begged that 
his life might be spared, and food left to keep him from starving. 
The chief consulted his warriors, and told Billy that they would 
spare his life, but the provisions were to be used. He then asked 
them to let him keep his gun and pistol as a means of defense 
from wild animals. This they would not consent to do, as one of 
their number had no fire arms, and greatly admired Billy’s outfit in 
that line. They staid all day and all the next night, and left next 
morning, taking all Billy’s cooking utensils, and nearly all his 
provisions. He was glad, however, to see them leave without 
taking his life. A heavy snowstorm now set in and completely 
covered the dug-out. At night, wolves came in immense numbers, 
howled around the hut, ran over tli^ top of it, scratched for an 
entrance, and made Billy’s blood run cold at the 2:)rospect of being 
eaten alive by half-starved wolves after escaping Hie scalping-knife 
of the savages. 

The twentieth day came, the day appointed for Herrington’s 
return. Billy counted the hours as they went by, and waited and 
listened for the welcome voice of his tried and true friend. Night 
came, but Herrington came not. A whole week passed beyond the 
appointed time, and Billy was still alone. Finally, on the twenty- 
ninth day, when hope was about dead, and Billy nearly dead, too, 
he heard a voice: 

“Hello, Billy!” 

“ All right, Dave! ” 

“Well, old boy, are you alive.?” 

“ Yes, but that is about all. I have had a tough siege of it 
since you went away.” 

This conversation was carried on wliile Dave was digging his 
way through the drifted snow to the door of the hut. He finally 


452 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


pushed the door open, went in, and was immediately clasped in 
Billy’s arms. He would not let him go, but hugged him time and 
again, meanwhile telling him how he loved him. 

“ Well, Billy, my hoy,” said Dave, “I hardly expected to see 
you alive, but as I had left you here, I was bound to come through, 
or die in the attempt.” 

Again Billy threw his arms around Dave’s neck and fell upon 
his bosom while tears of joy ran down his face. 

Dave then sat down and told Billy what great trials he had 
encountered in going and coming. How the snow had blocked his 
way; how the oxen had wandered off, and what a weary time he 
had hunting them. 

The two fast friends soon packed up what little goods the 
Indians had left them, and put back in a wagon drawn by the team 
of oxen, for civilization. They accomplished the return trip, and 
Billy was once more at his mother’s house. Dave Herrington 
accompanied him. Here Dave died, being tenderly nursed by 
Billy’s mother and sisters, who felt that they could not do enough 
for one who had done so much for Billy. His disease was fatal, 
and after an illness of only one week he died of pneumonia, after 
having endured almost incredible hardships and privations in the 
various trapping expeditions in which he had been a prominent 
actor. 






BUFFALO BILL. 


453 


CHAPTER IIL 

BEAR HUNTING-ENCOUNTER WITH HORSE THIEVES-PONY EX¬ 
PRESS RIDER - WITH COL. CLARk’s EXPEDITION AGAINST 

INDIANS-HIS MOTHER^S DEATH-A SOLDIER-MARRIAGE- 

AS PILOT TO CUSTER-ANTICIPATED MILLIONS-CHAMPION¬ 

SHIP IN BUFFALO HUNTING. 

After the death of his friend, Billy again engaged as a pony 
express rider. He was assigned to a route seventy-six miles long, 
and rode with ease and regularity. One day after making his trip, 
he found the rider who was to continue the route a distance of 
eighty-five miles, was drunk, and could not go out. Billy accord¬ 
ingly mounted a fresh pony and started on the other fellow’s route. 
He made the ride on time, having accomplished 323 miles on horse¬ 
back without an hour’s rest, "".t is the greatest feat on record in 
that line. 

He finally went to Horseshoe, a station on the express route, 
used as headquarters, where he had a comparatively easy time, 
being used as a supernumerary, riding only when other riders were 
disabled. 

One day he started for a bear hunt, going entirely alone. He 
rode up into the mountains without discovering any bears, and not 
wishing to return without any trophy of his skill, he continued to 
ride until night came on. He now found himself many miles from 
headquarters, and in a wild and desolate region. He had killed 


454 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


two sage hens, and was about to make a fire to cook one of them 
for supper, when he heard the neighing of a horse. He sprung to 
his horse, which stood near by, to prevent him from answering, as is 
usual for horses to do under such circumstances. 

He was now quite anxious to know whether the owner of the 
horse was friend or foe. He made a reconnoissance and saw a light 
shining at a little distance from him. Approaching the light he 
found it came from a dug-out in the mountain side. He drew near 
cautiously, and found that persons were conversing in his own 
language. He was glad to find that the occupants were white men. 
He rapped on the door, and was immediately answered: 

“Who’s there?” 

“ A friend, and a white man.” 

“ Come in.” 

He stepped in and found himself in the midst of as rough a 
set of men as he had ever met in all his wanderings. One or two 
of them he recognized as formerly teamsters when he was con¬ 
nected with the freight trains of the plains. He was pleased to see 
that they did not recognize him. He was thoroughly surprised and 
frightened by his unexpected surroundings, but did not by appear¬ 
ance or tone of voice betray his emotions. He wanted to get away 
from them as soon as possible. 

“ Where are you going, young man?” said one of them. 

“ I am on a bear hunt.” 

“ Who is with you? ” 

“ I am entirely alone.” 

“ Where are you from?’* 

“ I left Horseshoe Station this mornino’.” 

“ How came you here ? ” 

“Just as I was going into camp, about one hundred yards down 
the creek, I heard one of your horses whinny, and then I came to 
your camp,” 


BUFFALO BILL. 


455 


“ Where is your horse ? ” 

“I left him down the creek.” 

“ Well, we will send for him.” 

“ Captain, I will leave my gun here, go down and get my 
horse, and return and stay all night.” 

“Jim and I will go with you,” said one of the men. “You 
may leave your gun here. You will not need it.” 

“ All right, lead the way.” 

Billy now knew he was in the hands of a band of horse thieves. 
He knew that he would never get away from them alive, unless 
he escaped that hour. He thought fast, and soon had his plan 
matured. There seemed to be but little choice between being shot 
to death while fleeing from them, and being shot to death tied to a 
stake. He preferred the former. They reached the place where 
the horse was hitched. 

“ I will lead the horse,” said one. 

“ Very well,” said Billy. “I will carry these two sage hens 
which I have killed.” 

The man went ahead, leading the horse. Billy came next, 
carrying the sage hens. The other man brought up the rear. 
Every step onward seemed to Billy to be a step toward certain 
death. He determined to escape or die there. He dropped one 
of the hens as if by chance, and asked the man behind him to pick 
it up. He stooped to do so, but as it was dark, he had to search 
for the hen. Billy pulled his revolver, seized the muzzle, and with 
the butt dealt the man a heavy blow on the back of his head, 
felling him to the ground. The man ahead turned to see what 
was the matter, but, as he did so, drew his revolver. Billy was too 
quick for him, and sent a bullet crashing through his brain. He 
seized his horse, jumped into the saddle, and galloped away as fast 
as he could, over the rough road. 

The thieves in the hut heard the noise and were soon in hard 



m 

o 

o 

o 

h) 




45 ^> 


HOOTING DEER AT 


































































































































BUFFALO BILL. 


457 


pursuit, and gaining rapidly on him. He abandoned his horse, 
gave him a sharp slap on the shoulders, and he went bounding 
away down the mountain side. He crept up into some brush, and 
had the satisfaction of seeing the robbers rush by him, and heard 
them firing at what they supposed was Billy on the horse. 

When they were gone he slipped down and struck out for 
Horseshoe Station, distant ^about twenty-five miles. He traveled 
hard all night and reached the station at daylight. When he had 
related his experience, a band was organized to pursue the robbers. 
When the company formed for this purpose reached the rendezvous 
of the men, they found it deserted, and could find no trace of 
the route taken by the fleeing robbers. 

He continued to ride the pony express until i86i, when he 
went to Fort Lamed, Kan., and with a man named George 
Long, commenced to buy horses for the government. 

In 1862 he joined an expedition against the Indians. He acted 
as guide and scout to Col. Clark, who was in command of the 
9th Kansas Volunteers. They had several engagements with the 
Indians, but none of any especial importance. 

In 1863 his mother died, and then Buffalo Bill gave himself 
up to a dissolute and reckless life, associating with gamblers, 
drunkards, and bad characters generally. He kept up his dissipa¬ 
tion for about two months. While on a spree, he enlisted as a 
recruit in the 7th Kansas Volunteers, who were home on veteran 
furlough. When he sobered up, he found himself a regularly 
enlisted soldier, but when or where he enlisted he could never tell, 
so drunk was he when he was mustered in. 

In the spring of 1864 the regiment went to Tennessee, and 
reached Memphis just after the memorable defeat of General 
Sturgiss, at Guntown, Mississippi. The fighting he was now 
called upon to do was new to him. He was finally made a non¬ 
commissioned officer, and placed upon detached duty as scout. 


45^ FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS 


From Tennessee his regiment went to Missouri, and had an 
engagement with General Pine at Pilot Knob, and afterward, for 
about six weeks, kept up a running fight, having a skirmish every day. 
While on this campaign, he fell in with his old friend Wild 
Bill, who was acting as Federal scout and spy. It was a happy 
meeting, and they worked together some time. 

After the war closed in 1S65, he was discharged at Fort 
Leavenworth, and immediately went to St. Louis, and married a 
Miss Frederici, with whom he had become acquainted while in St. 
Louis on military duty, the year previous. 

We quote now from his autobiography, page 145 i 
“During the winter of 1866-7, ^ scouted between Fort 
Ellsworth and Fort Fletcher. In the spring of 1867 I was at 
Fort Fletcher, when General Custer came out to go on an Indian 
expedition with Gen. Hancock. I remained at this post until it 
was drowned out by the heavy floods of Big Creek, on which it 
was located ; the waters rose about the fortifications and rendered 
the, place unfit for occupancy, so the government abandoned the 
fort and moved the troops and supplies to a new post, which had 
been named Fort Hays, located further west, in the south fork of 
Big Creek. It was while scouting in the vicinity of Fort Hays 
I had my first ride with the gallant and dashing General Custer, 
who had come to the Fort from Fort Ellsworth with an escort of 
only ten men. He wanted a guide to pilot him to Fort Lamed, a 
distance of sixty-five miles across the country. 

“ I was ordered by the commanding officer to guide General 
Custer to his desired destination, and I soon received word from 
the General that he would start out in the morning with the 
intention of making the trip in one day. Early in the morning 
I was on hand, mounted on my large mouse-colored mule, an 
animal of great endurance, and ready for the journey. When the 
General saw me, he said ? 


BUFFALO BILL. 


459 


®®^Cody, I want to travel fast, and go through as quickly as 
possible, and I don’t think that mule of yours is fast enough for me.’ 

^ General, never mind the mule, he’ll get there as soon as 
your horses. That mule is a good one.’ 

‘‘ ‘ Very well ; go ahead then,’ said he, but he looked as if he 
thought I would delay the party on the road, 

“For the first fifteen miles, until we came to the Smoky Hill 
River, which we were to cross, I could hardly keep the mule in 
advance of the General, who rode a frisky, impatient and ambitious 
thoroughbred steed ; indeed, the whole party was finely mounted. 
The General repeatedly told me that the mule was ‘no good,’ and 
that I ought to have a good horse. But after crossing the river 
and striking the sand-hills, 1 began letting my mule out a little, and 
putting the ‘ persuaders ’ to him. He was soon out-traveling the 
horses, and by the time vve had made about half the distance to 
Fort Lamed, I occasionally had to wait for the General or some of 
his party, as their horses were beginning to show signs of fatigue. 

“‘General, how about this mule.? ’ I asked at last. 

“ ‘Codv, you have a better vehicle than I thouglit you had/ 
was his reply. 

“From that time on to Fort Lamed I had no trouble in keep¬ 
ing ahead of the party. We rode into the fort at 4 o’clock in the 
afternoon with about half the escort only, the rest having lagged 
behind.” 

We now come to that part of Bill’s life when he suddenly 
found himself a millionaire, and as suddenly was reduced to poverty. 

He and William Rose, knowing that the Kansas Pacific Rail¬ 
road would cross Big Creek, about one mile from Fort Ellsworth, 
concluded to purchase a site and lay out a town there, and reap the 
benefit of rise in price of town lots. When the site was surveyed 
and the lots laid out, they gave the new town the name of Rome. 
To make things boom, they gave a lot to any one who would build 


460 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


upon it, reserving for themselves the corner lots and other desirable 
locations. 

Their scheme was a success. In less than one month they had 
a town consisting of about two hundred frame and log houses, a 
hotel, several stores, and a saloon. Their fortune was now made, 
and they would frequently meet and figure up their gains, which as 
yet were in the future, but very near—almost within their grasp. 

About this time. Dr. Webb, who was agent for the railroad, 
and whose business it was to locate towns, came to Rome and 
sought the proprietors. 

“ You have a flourishing town, I see,” said he. 

“Yes, indeed,” said Bill. “Let us give you a lot. All you 
have to do is to build on it,” 

“ No, thank you,” said the Doctor. “But would you not like 
a partner ? ” 

“ A partner! No, sir; we have too good a thing to ‘whack up’ 
with any one,” said Bill loftily. 

“ Gentlemen,” said the Doctor, “ I am agent for the railroad, 
and it is my business to locate towns.” 

“ Ah, indeed,” said Rose. “So we have saved the company 
great expense. Here we have a town already started.” 

“ But the company expect to make money selling land and 
town lots, and unless you give the company or me a show in this 
matter, I will have to start a town near you and run competition.” 

“ Go ahead,” said Rose; “we have the ‘ bulge ’ on you.” 

The Doctor departed, and staked a place about one mile east 
of Rome and called it Hays City. He took pains to inform every 
one that there the railroad company would build shops and establish 
headquarters. The result is easily and quickly told. All the 
houses in Rome were pulled down and carted to Hays City. Cody 
& Rose found their site deserted, the only sign of a town having 
been there was the lone shanty where they kept their little stock 


BUFFALO BILL. 


461 


of merchandise. They too, finally pulled up stakes, and accepted 
two lots apiece in Hays City as a gift from Dr. Webb. Bill did 
not try to build another town. He returned to his favorite pursuit 
of scouting and hunting. Rose accepted a contract for grading a 
part of the railroad, and Bill undertook to furnish the camp with 
buffalo meat. » 

One day Bill put his horse into the team that was used in 
drawing a scraper, one of Rose’s horses having given out. There 
had been no buffalo in that vicinity for several days, and meat was 
getting scarce. One of the workmen discovered a bunch of buffalo 
just coming over a distant hill. Bill jerked the harness off his horse, 
—the one that afterward became famous and went by the name of 
“ Brigham,”—leaving the blind bridle on, and mounted without 
saddle. Snatching up his gun, which he called “ Lucretia Borgia,” 
and which was an improved breech-loading needle gun, just received 
from the government, he dashed away toward the game. 

Just then the gates of the fort opened and a captain and sev¬ 
eral lieutenants rode out, they too having discovered the buffalo, 
and were intent on a chase after them. As Bill rode up to them the 
Captain said: 

“Well, my man, you are not going after the buffalo on that 
horse! It takes a spirited and blooded horse to take such game.” 

“ Does it.^ ” said Bill, innocently, as if he were ignorant of the 
business. 

“Yes, it does; but as we only want the tongues and a few 
tenderloin steaks, you may follow us and take the rest of the 
game.” 

Bill bowed low in acknowledgement of the favor granted him, 
while the officers galloped off to overtake the buffalo. Bill knew 
the habits of the animal, and instead of riding directly toward them, 
as the officers did, he took a straight course for the creek, where he 
knew they would cross. In this way he arrived there as soon as 



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BUl'FALO BILL. 


463 


they did, while the officers were in the rear about three hundred 
yards. He immediately threw off the old blind bridle and let 
Brigham ” have his own way. The horse understood his busi¬ 
ness. He carried Bill close ujd to the side of one buffalo, and as 
soon as he heard the shot and saw the animal fall, he dashed up 
alongside of another, and so on. There were only eleven buffalo 
in the herd. These were all killed in quick succession, only one 
shot missing aim. When the last animal was down Brigham 
stopped, and Bill leaped from his back, just as the officers rode up. 
Bill saluted them in royal style, and said: 

“ Gentlemen, here are your tongues and tenderloins.” 

“ Who are you, any way ? ” asked the Captain in astonishment, 

“ My name is Cody,” said Bill. 

“What, not Bill, the scout?” 

“ The same, sir.” 

“ Well, I must say that horse of yours has good running jooints.” 

“ Yes, a few!” 

“ And what a hunter you are. Indeed, I never saw finer 
sport.” 

“ Brigham did the hunting, sir, I had only to do the shooting. 
When I fired and missed, he would give me another chance at the 
same animal. If I missed the second time, he would dash away, 
as much as to say, ‘ You are no good.’ ” 

The Captain gave Bill a pressing invitation to come to the 
fort, and assured him that he would be glad to give him employ¬ 
ment, whenever he should have need of a scout. 

At Fort Wallace was a scout named Comstock, who was 
thought by some to be more expert in hunting and killing buffaloes 
than was Cody. It was arranged by mutual friends to have a 
trial of skill. The stake was $500, and both men found ready 
backers. 

The place was twenty miles east of Sheridan, Kan. The 


464 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

contest was extensively advertised, and hundreds of people from as 
far east as St. Louis, went to see the match. 

It was agreed that both men should ride into the herd, and 
Cody should take the right side, and Comstock the left. Cody was 
mounted on Brigham, and had his trusty rifle Lucretia, a 50 caliber. 
He felt confident of success, because he knew his horse could not 
be excelled, and his gun had no equal. At the appointed day the 
company assembled, and soon a herd of buffaloes was discovered 
quietly grazing. A man to keep tally went with each hunter, 
while the spectators remained at a safe distance. 

Cody rode to the head of his part of the herd, and by killing 
the leaders, and pressing the others from right to left, he soon had 
them running in a circle. He kept up the race until he had 
sixty-nine buffaloes lying dead in a very small circle. Comstock 
rode after his and killed the rearmost animal each time. The 
result was that he had only forty-six dead animals, and they were 
scattered along the plains for three or four miles. As may be 
guessed, Cody’s plan made his skill appear to great advantage. 
The championship was cheerfully accorded to him. This circum¬ 
stance, coupled with the fact, that as hunter for the Kansas Pacific 
Railroad Company, he had in eighteen months killed 4,380 
buffaloes, gave him the name of “ Buffalo Bill.” 

The grand finale of his contest with Comstock may be 
mentioned here. On the last run he took both saddle and bridle 
from his horse, and, although the ladies of the company begged 
him not to undertake so rash a feat, he dashed away on his well- 
trained horse without either saddle or bridle. He separated a big 
bull from the herd, and headed him toward the company of 
spectators. On they came, nearer and nearer to the assembly, 
and it seemed that the ladies must be run down before the 
infuriated beast and the wild rider. The ladies were frightened, 
and screamed lustily. Just as the buffalo was a few feet distant, 


BUFFALO BILL. 


465 


“ Brigham ” came up alongside at one bound, and Cody sent a ball 
through the heart of the bull, which rolled in the dust at the very 
feet of the spectators, while Bill leajoed to the ground and 
“ Brigham ” stopped short in his tracks. This brilliant feat won 
round after round of applause for “ Buffalo Bill.” 



466 FRONTIERSMENy PIONEERS^ AND SCOUTS 


CHAPTER IV. 

SCOUT AND GUIDE-FORT LEAVENWORTH AND GEN. HAZEN- 

INDIANS THWARTED-GEN. SHERIDAN AND FORT HAYS- 

CHIEF OF SCOUTS - GUIDE TO GRAND DUKE ALEXIS -- 

ENTERTAINMENT IN CHICAGO AND NEW YORK-MEMBER OF 

LEGISLATURE IN NEBRASKA-ACQUIRES CELEBRITY AND 

MEANS AS AN ACTOR-TAKES PART IN SIOUX WAR-SETTLES 

ON FARM IN NEBRASKA. 

After the bunting match Buffalo Bill removed his family,— 
his wife and little daughter,—to Leavenworth, and soon after¬ 
ward reported to Captain Dangerfield Parker in command at Fort 
Lamed, for duty as scout and guide. 

Gen. Plazen soon after arrived at the fort and took command. 
There were three hundred lodges of Indians about the fort. They 
were restless and anxious to take the war path, but were kept quiet 
by the efforts of the soldiers. Gen. Hazen wanted to go to Fort 
Harper, and ordered Bill and twenty infantrymen to accompany 
him, as he rode in a six mule wagon. They went as far as Fort 
Zarah, where they left the General to go alone, and had orders to 
return to Fort Lamed next morning. But Buffalo Bill told the 
sergeant that he would return to Lamed that afternoon, and 
saddling his mule, he set out alone. When about half way he was 
“jumped” by a band of Indians, who rode up saying, “ How ! 
How ! ” and one reached out his hand to Buffalo for a hearty 


BUFFALO BILL, 


467 


shake. He grasped the hand and was immediately jerked forward 
hy the brave, while another redskin grabbed his mule by the bridle, 
and another snatched his revolver from the holster, another 
grabbed his rifle from him, while still another struck him on 
the head with a tomahawk. They then started off toward the 
Arkansas River, one leading the mule, while the rest lashed him 
from behind. They were yelling, whooping, singing, as only 
Indians can when having everything their own way. These were 
some of the Indians who had been left at Fort Lamed that 
morning. Bill soon discovered that the whole band were on the 
warpath, and these were only a squad from the main army. 

One of the chiefs came up to him and asked him where he 
had been. A happy thought came to him at that instant, and he 
answered, “ I have been searching for the ‘ Whoa-haws.’ ” The 
Indians used this term to designate the cattle furnished them by 
the government. The old chief was anxious to know more about 
the “whoa-haws.” Bill told him they were back a little way, 
and he had been sent by Gen. Hazen to tell him that they were for 
his people. The chief asked if any soldiers were with the herd. 
Bill said there were. The chief seemed delighted ; Bill then told 
him that the treatment he had received was mean and cowardly, 
especially as he was on such a friendly errand. The chief then 
made the voung men give up Bill’s arms. He was anxious to get 
the cattle, and believed also there were “heap of soldiers coming.” 
Bill had been lying to him, but thought himself justified under the 
circumstances. The old chief told him to go back and bring the 
cattle up. This Bill consented to do, and started off, intending, 
when in the valley, out of sight of the Indians, to put spurs to his 
mule and flee to Fort Lamed. He had gone but a little way, 
when, on looking back, he saw fifteen Indians following him. He 
urged his mule to a lope. He reached the valley, and turned 
sharply off and headed toward the fort. The Indians came in sight, 


468 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


and seeing him fleeing, started in hot pursuit. They kept up the 
chase for about nine miles, Fort Lamed being still six miles 
distant, when the old road was reached, and Buffalo Bill put spurs 
to his mule and urged him to his greatest speed. The Indians 
came on, but did not gain much. At sundown Fort Lamed was 
four miles away, but in plain sight. Bill’s mule began to give 
out, while the horses of the Indians seemed fresh, and were gain¬ 
ing rapidly. When two miles from the fort, several of the Indians 
were only a quarter of a mile behind the fleeing scout. Fortunately, 
he saw’ a squad of soldiers in a government wagon going to the 
fort. He hailed them, and hastily told his story. They turned aside 
in a clump of trees near at hand, and waited the Indians, who came 
dashing along. They fired upon them, killing two; the others 
turned, and escaped in the dark. The two were scalped, and then 
Buffalo Bill and his comrades moved into the fort, where all the 
soldiers were under arms, and preparing for an attack, as they had 
heard the firing. 

When Buffalo Bill reported to the Commander, he found him 
with all his scouts trying to find a man who would volunteer to 
carry a dispatch to General Sheridan, then at Fort Hays, sixty-five 
miles away. None were willing to go. Finally Cody volunteered, 
and although he had ridden sixty miles that day and was tired and 
hungry, he mounted a horse and left Fort Lamed, to ride to Fort 
Hays in the night, not a star appearing, and a storm gathering in 
the sky. His route lay through a country infested by hostile 
Indians, but he reached General Sheridan’s headquarters a little after 
daybreak, and delivered the message. 

After taking a nap of two hours, and visiting with some old 
acquaintances at Hays City, near the fort, he reported again to 
General Sheridan, as he had been requested to do. He found him 
trying to persuade some scout to carry a message to Fort Dodge, 
ninety-five miles away. But none would volunteer, though the pay 


BUFFALO Fill. 


469 


was large. Several messengers had been killed on that route, and 
the scouts were chary about taking the chances. It seemed hard to 
ask Buffalo Bill to do it, since he had just ridden one hundred and 
twenty-fire miles the da}” and night before. No one would volun¬ 
teer, and at 4 o’clock in the afternoon Cody mounted a fine horse 
and started. He rode seventy miles that night, and reached Saw 
Log Crossing, where he found a company of colored troops under 
command of Major Cox. Here he slept an hour, got a fresh horse, 
and was soon on the way again. It was now just sunrise. About 
10 o’clock he reached Fort Dodge. He found the Commander 
anxious to send messages to Fort Lamed, but no scout would 
undertake the trip. Fort Dodge is sixty-five miles from Fort 
Lamed. As the latter post was Cody’s headquarters, he volun¬ 
teered to make the trip for the Commander. The Commander said 
he would be glad to send the message, but it seemed too hard 
for Buffalo Bill to make the journey after all he had done, 
especially as they had no fresh horse to offer him, and only a mule 
as a substitute. But Cody was anxious to return, and he mounted 
the mule and commenced his homeward trip, leaving Fort Dodge 
at dark. He did not take the main and generally traveled road, 
knowing the Indians would be watching that foi scouts. Unfor¬ 
tunately his mule got away as he stopped to get a drink at the 
creek. He tried to catch him, but the obstinate animal trotted 
on ahead, just out of his reach, the balance of the night. Just at 
sunrise he came in sight of Fort Lamed. When the morning guns 
echoed over the plains, they were just half a mile from the fort, the 
mule trotting along ahead, and Bill trudging after him afoot. He 
was provoked. Raising his gun, he aimed and fired, and lodged a 
ball in the mule’s hip. He shot him again, and continued to pepper 
him from the rear until he dropped dead. The troops at the fort 
hearing the firing, came rushing out to see the cause. They all 
agreed that the mule had been served just right. Buffalo Bill 


470 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


reported to Captain Parker, delivered the messages, and then lay 
down and took a long, refreshing sleep. General Hazen had 
returned to Fort Lamed, and wanted to send some messages to 
General Sheridan, so that night found Cody again on the road, 
mounted on a good horse, bound for Fort Hays, the headquarters 
of General Sheridan. The next morning found the intrepid scout 
again in the presence of General Sheridan, who was astonished 
when he knew of the rides he had made from post to post, since he 
saw him two or three days before. He had ridden 355 I'niles in 
fifty-eight riding hours, most of the time in the night, making an 
average of over six miles an hour, through a trackless plain infested 
by hostile Indians. 

General Sheridan kept Cody at Fort Hays, and appointed him 
Chief of Scouts to accompany the 5th U. S. Cavalry in an expedi¬ 
tion against the Dog Soldier Indians, who were then making 
trouble along the Republican River. 

From this time‘on to 1873 Buffalo Bill acted as Chief of 
Scouts. Pie was attached to various commands, and had many 
exciting fights with the Indians. He was successful in all his 
expeditions, and a favorite with the United States officers. 

He acted as guide to the Grand Duke Alexis, when he was in 
the West on a hunting excursion. Pie led a party of distinguished 
men of the nation in a grand hunt. He recovered stolen property 
from thieves, whether white or red. Pie killed many an Indian 
chief, and appropriated his horse and accoutrements. He won 
numerous bets upon the speed of his favorite riding horse. He 
would occasionally get on a spree, at which time he would generally 
lose all his money while gambling with cards. When sober, he 
would preach against drinking and gambling, and always acknowl¬ 
edged the evil effects of both. Indeed, it would require hundreds 
of pages to relate a tithe of the many exciting scenes in his life 
during the stirring times of the Indian wars on the plains. 


BUFFALO BILL. 


.471 

We must content ourselves by saying that what has been nar¬ 
rated of him is but the outline of his remarkable career, which will 
bear filling up with as strong colors as the imagination can furnish, 
and yet the truth will not be exceeded. 

In 1872 he went to Chicago and was kindly received and right 
royally entertained by many of her prominent citizens, who 
had met him while on pleasure excursions in the West. 

From Chicago he proceeded to New York, where he was 
treated as a prince. James Gordon Bennett, editor and proprietor 
of the Herald., prepared a magnificent feast for him, and 
invited many friends to meet the famous scout. Cody, however, 
had accepted so many invitations that he got confused as to dates 
and plans, and failed to put in an appearance at Bennett’s dinner. 
He apologized for his carelessness, and was forgiven by the great 
editor. After spending three weeks in the city he returned West. 

In the fall of 1872 he was elected member of the Nebraska 
Legislature, and hence derived the title of Honorable. 

About this time, Ned Buntline wrote a play called “Scouts of 
the Plains,” and engaged Buffalo Bill as the star, and Texas Jack 
as assistant. 

The play was produced first at Chicago, but when Buffalo 
Bill came on the stage, he could not remember one word of his 
part. Ned Buntline, who also had a part in the play, helped him 
out of the dilemma by asking: 

“ Where have you been so long. Bill ? ” 

Glancing up into one of the boxes, Buffalo Bill saw a Mr. 
Milligan, of Chicago, who had been out on the plains hunting 
buffaloes with him. A happy idea came to him, and he replied: 

“I have been on a hunt with Milligan.” 

The “hit’’was immense, and the theatre echoed again and 
again with applause. From this the conversation was entirely 
impromptu so long as Buffalo Bill held the floor. 


472 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

The play was a success financially. From Chicago the troupe 
went to St. Louis, thence to Cincinnati, and then all over the 
East and West. Everywhere they were greeted by crowded 
houses. At the end of the season, Buffalo Bill found his share of 
the profits were about $6,000. 

In 1874 Buffalo Bill again went to the plains, the previous 
season having proved a very successful one. After scouting 
until fall he returned to New York and organized another 
troupe which played with success. The summer of 1875 he spent 
with his family in Rochester, N. Y. That fall he again played to 
large houses, and in 1876 went West to take a hand in the Sioux 
war then raging. During this war he had a hand-to-hand fight 
with an Indian chief. Yellow Hand, but killed his enemy and 
scalped him in the presence of his entire command, who stood 
spectators to the duel, and then turned upon him, but a company of 
United States cavalry that had been witnesses also of the contest, 
dashed down and rescued Cody. 

That fall he returned East and'played in a new drama written 
to illustrate scenes in the late Sioux war. After visiting the 
principal Eastern cities, the troupe went to California, and played to 
crowded houses. 

Returning to Nebraska, he and Major North bought a cattle 
ranche. Leaving the Major to look after the cattle, Buffalo Bill 
went East, and in 1877 played in a new drama entitled “ May 
Cody; or. Lost and Won.” This was the most successful play he 
had ever produced. 

In 1878, his wife becoming tired of traveling, he proceeded to 
North Platte, Neb., where on a farm adjoining the town, he 
had a fine residence erected, where the family now live, and where 
Buffalo Bill spends his spare time. 

The season of 1878-9 was very successful, the troupe being 
larger than any previous one. The Indians were obtained from the 


BUFFALO BILL. 


473 


Indian Territory. The play is called the “ Knights of the Plains.” 

This year, 1883, Buffalo Bill and Dr. Carver have formed a 
corfibination on a more extensive plan than ever before attempted. 
The plan is to visit all large places with a herd of buffaloes, a large 
band of Indians and other accessories, and give exhibitions of various 
characters, in fair grounds or on race courses. As this volume goes 
to press, the season has not commenced, and we are obliged to 
leave Buffalo Bill in the midst of active preparations for a grander 
exhibition of Western life, than was ever before given the people 
east of the Mississippi. Barnum must look well to his laurels, or 
the Scout of the Plains will eclipse him as showman. 




INDIAN MEDICINE MEN. 


474 






























































476 















































































































LIFE OF WILD BILL 


FRONTIER SETTLEMENTS-SCOUTS IN GENERAL-DESCRIPTION 

OF WILD BILL-CHARACTERISTICS-ASSOCIATIONS-BLACK 

NELL INTRODUCED-TRIAL OF SKILL AS A MARKSMAN-RES¬ 
CUES A CHILD-INCIDENT OF SCOUT LIFE IN CONNECTION 

WITH CIVIL WAR-LATER EXPERIENCES-DEATH. 

The repression of outlaws in those portions of our country 
which, from time to time in the advance of civilization, have been 
border settlements, has often baffled the wisest dispensers of law 
and justice, and the most vigilant'of law-abiding citizens. 

To aid in this work there have appeared in history original 
characters ready to take upon themselves the task of settling des¬ 
perate cases, and peculiarly fitted for dealing with desperadoes. 
They are brave and determined men, of large physical proportions 
and steady nerves, trained from boyhood in poverty and adversity, 
early learning self-reliance as well as self-defence, and risking life as 
quickly as the boldest criminals, but for an entirely different object. 

They make their own way, and help others. They search the 
country over, and find out what none others know, and when an 
emergency arises, as in our Civil War, or the recent expedition into 
the mountain fastnesses of Mexico, they are prepared to render 
assistance. 


477 



47S frontiersmen, pioneers, and scouts. 


They know neither fatigue nor fear. They are isolated char¬ 
acters, even in dress, which is in accordance with their own ideas 
of fitness and mode of life, which of itself is peculiar. 

One distinguishing trait is, that they resent on the instant any 
reflection, however small, on their honor as men, and take a con¬ 
scious pride in defending the unprotected, and in serving friends or 
their country in her need. 

Having given this general outline, we introduce “ Wild Bill,” 
chief among scouts and guides. 

We place him before you in the perfection of physical manli¬ 
ness, and by his side Black Nell, the faithful horse, his tried friend 
in many a desperate chance. We wish the bonny mare could speak 
for herself and her master, so that deeds of daring and valor that 
have never come to light might grace these pages; but dumb as 
she is, she is hardly more reticent than Wild Bill himself on any¬ 
thing pertaining to his individual experiences. 

We know enough, however, to truthfully assert that the pony 
acted well her part in many thrilling adventures, and bore a strik¬ 
ing resemblance in disposition and character to the master she 
served with perfect and loving obedience. Neither was she at dis¬ 
advantage in matter of size or comeliness. 

We cannot refrain from quoting here in part the minute per¬ 
sonal description of Wild Bill by Gen. Custer, which is given in 
full in the life of Wm. F. Cody (Buffalo Bill), between whom 
and our hero a firm friendship was established, as lasting as life, 
and to whom, in connection with him, we shall again have occasion 
to refer: 

“ Wild Bill was about six feet one inch in height, straight as 
the straightest of Indian warriors, whose implacable foe he was. 
He had broad shoulders, well formed chest and limbs, and a face 
strikingly handsome; a sharp, clear blue eye, which stared you 
straight in the face when in conversation; a finely-shaped 


WILD BILL, 


479 


nose, inclined to be aquiline: a well-turned mouth, and lips 
only partially concealed by a handsome moustache. His hair 
and complexion were those of a j^crfect blonde. The former was 
worn In uncut ringlets, falling carelessly over his j^owerfully formed 
shoulders. Whether on foot or on horseback, he was one of the 
most yierfect types of johysical manhood I ever saw.” 

As to his dress, a similar one has undoubtedly been seen by 
many travelers through the Western country, even in very recent 
times. He wore a fringed deer-skin frock, reaching to the knees, 
and confined by a belt, holding the inevitable knife and revolvers. 
Yellow moccasins adorned his small but shapely feet, and he invari¬ 
ably had, when not in disguise, an immense sombrero carelessly set 
upon his head, from under which “ eyes that have pointed the way 
to death many times,” looked with a gentleness singularly at vari¬ 
ance with the intense nature he possessed. 

His associations were of necessity largely among a rough class 
of people in the remote and sparsely settled portions of the country 
which he chose, and it is not surprising that he became addicted to 
some of the vices that accompany such surroundings. We do not 
deny his failings, but It Is in his services to our country, and to his 
friends as guide and often defender, that we wish to write of him. 

Before doing so, we wish to present a thought in reference to 
the longing for ever new fields for adventure that actuated him, 
and then note the gradual development of those marked traits that 
made him famous. It seems that in the j^arents existed in an in¬ 
cipient state the same unrest. We find them wearying of the 
home influences and surroundings of their youth, and it is In their 
early married days that the desire for j^Ioneer life is created—a life 
always exacting great sacrifices, and constant endeavor and daunt¬ 
less courage that must go hand in hand, in both men and women. 

They would seek the West In which to make a new home and 
rear their children. Illinois proved to be the extent of their iourney 


480 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS, 


westward, and it was there that the subject of this sketch was born. 

Among what influences, whether religious or otherwise, the 
days of his infancy were spent, we have no means of knowing. 
Scanty means incident to farm life in a new country necessarily 
deprived the youth of educational privileges to any great extent, 
and we conclude that. his taste in other directions—his love for 
nature, and finding out her secrets—largely overpowered the desire 
for mere book-knowledge. 

We find him getting the training and making ready for the 
pioneer life for which he early showed a love, by obtaining through 
his own exertions a pony, knife, and revolver. This was not a 
strange fancy when we take into consideration the unsettled con¬ 
dition of the country, the necessity for defense against hostile In¬ 
dians, the wild animals to be subdued, besides the countless other 
needs that these would help to meet. With these, all his own, to 
use as often as he willed, he soon became an expert in hunting. 
He also acquired skill in trapping. His later experiences only per¬ 
fected these accomplishments. 

As an example of his wonderful skill as a marksman we cite 
the following, as related in “ Adventures of Wild Bill ” by 
Ingraham: 

“Failing in an effort to secure employment at once in Kansas 
whither he had gone in search of adventure, he sought to enlist 
with the ‘ Red Legs,’ an anti-slavery band under the leader¬ 
ship of the rioted Jim Lane. This band numbered some three 
hundred men, all thoroughly armed and mounted; but not having 
the wherewithal to purchase a horse and complete equipment, he 
was refused as a ‘ Red Leg Ranger,’ greatly to his distress. 

“A few days after this the Red Legs went out on the commons 
to shoot with rifles and pistols for prizes, and our youth determined 
to get into the ring if possible. 

“To attract attention, when any one shot and did not drive the 


WILD BILL. 


bull’s-eye, he laughed in a satirical way, until at last one of the Red 
Legs turned fiercely upon him and said: ‘ Look a hyar, boy, you 
has too much laugh, as if you c’u’d do better; an’ durn my skins, 
ef yer hain’t a Red Leg, I’ll give yer a chance to shoot. Ef yer 
takes ther prize, I’ll pay yer put-up dust, an’ ef yer don’t. I’ll take 
the hickory ramrod o’ my rifle an’ welt yer nigh ter death. Does 
yer shoot on my tarms } ’ 

“ ‘ I will, and beat you too,’ was the quiet response. 

“ All eyes had been turned on the tall, handsome youth before 
them, and several had determined to try his mettle, after the shoot¬ 
ing, for having laughed at them, and now they gazed on him with 
increased interest. 

“There were three prizes, viz: A fine horse, saddle and bridle 
for the first; a rifle and belt, with two revolvers and a bowie-knife 
for the second, and a purse of one hundred dollars for the third. 

“ He had some little money, and said quietly: 

“‘I’ll pay the fees, for I want no man to give me money,’ 
Then shell out; it’s fifteen fer ther first, ten fer ther second, 
and five dollars fer ther third prize, an’ ther boys hes all chipped 
in, an’ ef yer don’t win, boy, they ’ll all see me larrup yer.’ 

“The speaker, Shanghai Bill, all knew, and greatly feared, for 
he was a desperado of the worst type, a giant in size and strength, 
and ever ready to get into a brawl. 

“ The boy smiled at his words, paid his thirty dollars, which 
left him with three in his pocket, and after the Red Legs had shot, 
took his stand, and raising his rifle, quickly fired. The first to start 
the cheer was Jim Lane himself, who cried out: 

“ ‘ By heaven! the best shot in the three hundred.’ 

“‘It’s a accident; besides, Gineral, ther’s two more to be 
shooted,’ growled Shanghai Bill. 

“ The two more were then shot in the same quick way as be¬ 
fore, and the bullets found dead center. 

31 


482 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


“‘I’ve got the horse, saddle and bridle toward becoming a 
Red Leg, General,’ said the boy quietly, addressing Lane. 

“‘You have, indeed; now see if you can win the arms, and 
egad, I believe you can,’ was Lane’s reply. 

“ These were to be shot for with pistols, and at twenty paces, 
the best two in three shots, and once more three dead center bull’s- 
eyes were scored by the lad. 

“ The men now became deeply interested in the youth, and 
watched eagerly for him to come to his third trial, which was to be 
with a rifle at a moving object, a hundred 3'^ards oflf. This object 
was a round piece of wood, j^ainted red, which was to be rolled, 
like a wheel, along the ground, and at it three shots were given. 
Just as the man who rolled it started it in motion, a crow flew over 
the field above the heads of the crowd, and instantly raising his 
rifle, he fired and brought him down, while he immediately seized 
the weapon held by vShanghai Bill, and throwing it to a level, sent 
a bullet through the red wheel ere it had stopped rolling. 

“ This double feat, and one shot with a strange rifle, set the 
crowd wild with enthusiasm.” 

This is only one instance among numberless exhibitions of his 
unerring aim, which not only protected the weak and innocent, but 
as often dealt death to foes. 

An account is given of the wonderful rescue of a small child. 
A bear having crept undiscovered near the cabin of an early settler, 
seized the child by its clothing, and was making fast tracks for the 
forest, when young Bill, discovering the fearful situation, pursued 
the animal, and shot him until he dropped the terrified infant, and 
turned upon him. Then it was that he put an end to the life of 
the beast, and catching up the child, soon returned him to his pa¬ 
rents. This brave act settled an old difficulty between the father 
and himself, and made them firm friends ever after. 

For a time he rendered efficient aid to the Overland Stage 






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4S4 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS, 


Company as driver. While serving in this capacity he w^as once 
intercepted by a band of Indians. As the road in front was an as¬ 
cending grade for the remainder of the distance to the station, he 
was confident that it would be useless to attempt a passage with 
any hope of escape, unless their numbers could be reduced, or some 
successful device conceived of removing them from the way. To 
effect this, 'he made a short turn, and urged his team forward to 
their utmost exertions, thus deceiving the savages, who fancied that 
he was about to make the distance by another route. 

Believing their energies were partially spent in gaining a new 
point from which to operate, he suddenly turned again, having won 
considerable time by this strategic movement, and used every art 
known to horsemen to excite his team to the greatest speed. The 
Indians, perceiving the trick, retraced the ground with fearful 
swiftness—those who were not already exhausted—and reached the 
edge of a narrow river that must be crossed, and there made their 
attack. 

Wild Bill’s desperate courage stood by him as, with the lines 
firmly secured, he made good use of his trusty revolvers, while his 
team broke through the yelling savages, and entered the stream, 
showered by the arrows of tjieir assailants, which carried death to 
all but two of the occupants of the coach. These, as well as the 
brave driver, were wounded, though not seriously, and pushed for¬ 
ward, though closely pursued, until assistance reached them, when 
they were able to overthrow the remnant of the band. 

Wild Bill scored many a success as an Indian-fighter, as the 
Generals whom he served can attest, in obtaining which his knowl¬ 
edge of woodcraft was of great assistance. We learn of him as a 
pony express rider winning new laurels for fidelity and daring, and 
gallant conduct. 

In whatever capacity he served, he thoroughly mastered the 
Mtuation, though death stared him in the face. Many times was he 


WILD BILL. 


485 


wounded so that it required weeks and months of nursing to 
restore him to usefulness, but neither this, nor the pain he endured, 
could unnerve the strong man. He was always a terror to the 
lawless, stage-robbers, horse-thieves, and mean men of every 
description, they giving him a wide berth after once learning, by 
actual contact, his true mettle, if they were so fortunate as once to 
escape with their lives. 

Let us now look at his career as scout and spy during our 
Civil War, when he “encountered many perils and suffered many 
privations in defense of our nationality.” In Harper’s Magazine a 
Lieutenant is made to tell one of the most daring feats ever 
attempted, which we quote: 

“ I can’t tell the thing as it was,” said the young officer. “ It 
was beyond description. One could only hold his breath and feel. 
It happened when our regiment was attached to Curtis’ command, 
in the expedition down into Arkansas. One day we were in the 
advance, and began to feel the enemy, who appeared in greater 
strength than at any time before. We were all rather uneasy, for 
there were rurnors that Kirby Smith had come up from Texas with 
all his force, and as we were only a strong reconnoitering party, a 
fight just then might have been bad for us. We made a big noise 
with a light battery, and stretched our cavalry out in the open, and 
opposite the rebel cavalry, who were drawn up in line of battle on 
the slope of the prairie, about a thousand yards away. There we 
sat for half an hour, now and then banging at each other, but both 
parties keeping pretty well their line of battle. They waited for 
us to pitch in. We were waiting till more of our infantry 
should come. 

“ It was getting to be stupid work, however, and we were all 
hoping something would turn up, when we noticed two men ride 
out from the center of their line, and move toward fis. At the first 
instant we paid little heed to them, supposing it some act of rebel 


486 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


bravado, when we saw quite a commotion all along the enemy’s 
front, and then they commenced firing at the two riders, and 
their line was all enveloped with smoke, out of which horsemen 
dashed in pursuit. The two riders kept well together, coming 
straight for us. Then we knew they were trying to escape, and 
the Colonel deployed one company as skirmishers to assist them. 
There wasn’t time to do much, although, as I watched the pursued 
and their joursuers, and found the two men .had halted at what I 
could see was a deep ditch, the moments seemed to be hours; and 
when they turned, I thought they were going to give themselves 
up. But no; in the face of that awful fire, they deliberately turned 
back, to get space for a good run at the ditch. This gave time for 
two of their pursuers to get within a few yards of them, when they 
stopped, evidently in doubt as to the meaning of this retrograde 
movement. They did not remain long in doubt, for the two men 
turned again, and with a shout, rushed for the ditch, and then we 
were near enough to see that they were Wild Bill and his mate. 
Bill’s companion never reached the ditch. He and his horse 
must have been shot at the same time, for they went down 
together, and did not rise again. 

“ Bill did not get a scratch. He spoke to Black Nell, the mare 
he rode, who knew as well as her master that there was life and 
death in that twenty feet of ditcli, and that she must jump it; and 
at it she went with a big rush. I never saw a more magnificent 
sight. Bill gave the mare her head, and turning in his saddle, fired 
twice, killing both of his pursuers, who were within a few lengths 
of him. They went out of their saddles like stones, just as Black 
Nell flew into the air and landed safely on our side of the ditch. 
In a moment both the daring scout and the brave mare were in our 
midst, while our men cheered and yelled like mad.” 

Wild Bill had secured all the information that could be obtained 
from the Confederates, and as an engagement was about to take 


V 


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STRUGGLE FOR LIFE. 


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487 



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488 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


place, he decided to make a bold dash for the Union side. He un¬ 
doubtedly enjoyed the prospect of danger connected with the adven¬ 
ture, or he certainly would have attempted escape by a less conspic¬ 
uous method. He had entered their lines in disguise as “a boy in 
gray,” to avoid detection. 

Several times in different disguises he entered the enemy’s lines, 
and once was discovered and sentenced to execution; but escaped 
without injury, to again baffle the sharpest of their detectives and 
reveal plans of action to our forces that were of great value during 
the campaign. 

Later he took command of a government wagon train bound 
for Springfield, Mo., with supplies for the United States Army. 

At one time he was wagonmaster of a train ordered by Gen. 
Fremont from Leavenworth, Kan., to Sedalia, Mo., and for meri¬ 
torious conduct in defending the team and stores from an attack by 
marauding parties, he was made wagonmaster of high rank in 
Gen. Curtis’ command, the Army of the Missouri. 

As marshal of Hays City he was equal to every emergency, 
as he was in every important position he was called to take. To 
hold this office in such places and under such circumstances as did 
Wild Bill, required far more courage than is expected of the 
ordinary official. The border element to which we have referred, 
was uppermost. Not only to shoot, but to kill, seemed to be de¬ 
manded in order to suppress riots or to preserve anything like peace 
and order. The vices at which we hold up our hands in horror 
were the everyday amusements, and the taking of human life was 
of such common occurrence and for such petty causes, that one 
would be in continual terror to listen to the bloody deeds so often 
enacted. 

Wild Bill led a more quiet life when he joined Buffalo Bill in 
his journey through the United States as an actor, though he failed 
to distinguish himself, and on several occasions satisfied his love for 


WILD BILL. 


4S9 


“ fair play,” by settling disputes in a summary manner. He soon 
wearied of the life, and settled on a plan of his own to make money 
by taking buffaloes and Comanche Indians to the East, so that the 
people there might realize the spectacle of a buffalo hunt. This 
failed him financially on account of not having a private inclosure 
for the exhibition, though it afforded amusement to a large crowd; 
but as money was the object, he concluded to fall back for a time 
on a surer basis, by renewing his old life as scout for the govern¬ 
ment. Later we find him in the gold regions of the West, the 
Black Hills, hoping to amass a competency. Ere he has time to 
accomplish his purpose his life Is cut short in its prime, by one of 
the many desperadoes that frequent places so remote from legal 
jurisdiction, lured on by the thirst for gain, and hoping to escape the 
reach of justice. 

Wild Bill is shot while engaged with friends in a game of 
cards, to avenge a fancied injury on being beaten at a similar game 
a short time previous; and though the assassin escape speedy 
retribution, it comes, and the cold-blooded murderer is at last num¬ 
bered with his kind. The friends of Wild Bill laid him to rest in 
the everlasting mountains, with kindly hands and affectionate 
. remembrances. 





490 


AMBUSCADE 













































































































































































































































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492 














































V 


LIFE OF CALIFORNIA JOE, 


ills EARLY LIFE A MYSTERY-FIGHTS INDIANS SUCCESSFULLY—^ 

RECEIVES RECOGNITION FROM THE MILITARY -OBTAINS 

NOTORIETY IN CALIFORNIA-ENTERS SERVICE OF UNION 

ARMY-CHIEF OF SCOUTS-DEATH AT THE HANDS OF AN 

ASSASSIN. 

Gen. Custer, in “My Life on the Plains,” thus speaks of Cali- 
fornia Joe: 

“ In concentrating the cavalry which had hitherto been oper¬ 
ating in small bodies, it was found that each detachment brought 
with it the scouts who had been serving with them. When I 
joined the command, I found quite a number of these scouts at¬ 
tached to various portions of the cavalry, but each acting sepa¬ 
rately. For the purpose of organization it was deemed best to unite 
them in a separate detachment, under command of one of their 
number. Being unacquainted with the merits or demerits of any 
of them, the selection of a chief had to be made somewhat at 
random. 

“ There was one among their number whose appearance would 
have attracted the notice of any casual observer. He was a man 
about forty years of age, perhaps older, over six feet in height, and 
possessing a well-proportioned frame. His head was covered with 

493 



494 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


a luxuriant crop of hair, almost jet black, strongly inclined to 
curl, and so long as to fall carelessly over his shoulders. His face, 
at least so much of it as was not concealed by the long, waving, 
brown beard and moustache, was full of intelligence, and pleasant 
to look ujDon. ,His eye was handsome, black, and lustrous, with an 
expression of kindness and mildness combined. On his head was 
generally to be seen, whether awake or asleep, a huge sombrero, or 
black slouch hat. A soldier’s overcoat, with its large, circular 
cape, a pair of trowsers, with the legs tucked in the top of his long 
boots, usually constituted the make-u]:) of the man whom I selected 
as chief scout. lie was known by the euphonious title of ‘ Cali¬ 
fornia Joe’; no other name seemed ever to have been given him, 
and no other name appeared to be necessary. 

“ This was the man whom, iq^oii a short acquaintance, I 
decided to appoint chief of the scouts. 

“Sending for California Joe, I informed him of his promotion, 
and what was expected of him and his men. After this official 
portion of the interview had been completed, it seemed proper to 
Joe’s mind that a more intimate acquaintance between us should be 
cultivated, as we had never met before. His first irlterrogatory, 
addressed to me in furtherance of this idea, was frankly put, as 
follows: 

“ ‘ See hyar, Gineral, in order thet we hev no misunderstandin’, 
I’d jist like ter ax ye a few questions. First, are ye an ambulance 
man or a boss man?’ 

“ Professing ignorance of his meaning, I requested him to 
explain. 

“ ‘ I mean,’ said he, ‘ do yer b’lieve in catchin’ Injuns in ambu¬ 
lances or on hossback?’- 

“ Still assuming ignorance, I replied, ‘ Well, Joe, I believe in 
catching Indians wherever we can find them, whether they are in 
ambulances or on horseback.’ 


CALIFORNIA JOB. 


495 


“ ‘ Thet ain’t what I’m a-drivin at,’ he responded. ‘ S’pose 
you re after Injuns and really want ter have a tussel with ’em, 
would yer start after ’em on hossback, or would yer climb inter a 
ambulance and be hauled after ’em.? Thet’s ther pint I’m a headin’ 
fer.’ 

“ I answered that I would prefer the method on horseback, 
provided I really desired to catch the Indians; but if I wished them 
to catch me, I would adopt the ambulance system of attack. 

« ‘ You’ve hit the nail squar’ on the head,’ said he. ‘ I’ve bin 
with em on the plains whar they started out after Injuns on wheels 
jist as ef they war goin’ to a town funeral in ther States, an’ they 
stood bout as many chances uv catchin’ Injuns ez a six-mule team 
would uv catchin’ a pack uv thievin’ ki-o-tes, jist as much.’ ” 

The foregoing evinces California Joe’s good judgment on 
Indian fighting, and we find that his perceptions were equallv 
acute on other subjects. We shall not be obliged to enlighten the 
reader, as to his educational advantages in the line of acquiring the 
use of language, since he speaks for himself. Had he informed 
us as well on other topics, the mystery that now surrounds his 
boyhood days would never have existed. He created this by 
scrupulously avoiding every allusion to his parents or relatives, or 
to any incident or experience in connection with them. It was as 
though they had never been. Joe was all the name he desired, 
and the curious were restrained by a reticence of manner that for¬ 
bade familiarity, from penetrating the apparently sacred precincts 
of the home, now his only in remembrance, or of calling up the 
friends of other days, undoubtedly lost to him. On other subjects 
he was ready and eager to exchange opinions, and showed a 
decidedly social nature. 

Without being able to tell how it all happened we behold him 
armed and equipped for service, already an expert in the use of 
firearms, a master In horsemanship, and a born terror to the red 


49 ^ FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


man, “ than whom ghosts or goblins could no more affright them.” 
In an eerie way, in the darkness, on his white horse, he rushed 
through their midst again and again, and no hand could point an 
arrow through superstitious fear. He captured their horses, 
defeated their plans of attacking, robbing and murdering, by timely 
warning those in danger, and carried death to many a wily savage 
before they discovered the real flesh and blood of which he was 
made. 

The oflicers of the regular army were glad to procure his 
services as a scout, on account of his superior capabilities, and also 
as a recognition of gallant conduct. They were going out to fight 
the Indians, and if possible subdue them. They needed not only a 
fearless, but a tried, wary, cunning, reliable guide, and California 
joe was all of these. After becoming celebrated In California so 
mat he never after was spoken of without the name of the State 
oeing added to that of his own, he went with the Union Army in 
defense of his country, as one of a band of border sharpshooters, and 
confirmed his established reputation for possessing a deadly aim. 
Afterward he served under Gen. Custer who, as we have seen, 
readily perceived his worth, and honored him by making him chief 
of scouts. California Joe was the friend of Wild Bill, Texas Jack, 
and Capt. Jack, and their companion in many thrilling adventures of 
pioneer life. His home was in Dakota at the time of his death, 
1876. He was shot by an unknown enemy. He was one of a 
strikingly unique group, whose weaknesses in common with man¬ 
kind, we will hide underneath their manly qualities and heroic 
deeds which far exceeded aught of human frailty. 









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TEXAS JACK. 

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LIFE OF TEXAS JACK. 


THIRST FOR 'ADVENTURE-PREPARATION FOR PIONEER LIFE- 

AMBITION FOR CATTLE-RAISING-INCIDENTS OF TRAVEL- 

ARRIVES IN TEXAS-AS A “ COW-BOY ”-HUNTER TO GOV¬ 
ERNMENT FORT-SCOUT AND GUIDE-OWNER OF A RANCH- 

CONNECTION WITH THEATRICAL LIFE-RESUMES LIFE IN 

THE WEST-DIES IN COLORADO. 

To begin with, Texas Jack’s heart was in the right place, from 
the time his eyes first opened to the light till the day they were 
closed in death, about three years ago; for we find him brave and 
courageous, honest and true, mindful of the rights of others, and 
always ready to lend a helping hand, or champion the defenseless. 

How he imbibed the love of adventure to such an extent as to 
cause him to determine, even when a boy In one of the South At¬ 
lantic States, to enter upon the exciting life of the Southwest in 
Texas, we cannot conceive, though his surroundings at the date of 
his childhood were well adapted to fit him, as far as horsemanship, 
hunting, and trapping were concerned, for the new life he was to 
lead. He often, in those days, assisted in furnishing the family 
table with game of his own shooting. We find him very early 
determined to become the owner of large herds of cattle. He had 
heard of the Immense ranches of Texas and their wealthy owners, 
and intended to use what means he had collected from the results 

499 



500 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


of his sure aim with the rifle, to take him to that country, where 
he expected to realize the visions of wealth that inspired him to 
youthful endeavor. He owned a pony with many good points, to 
which he was much attached, a rifle, revolver, and knife, in the use 
of which he had become distinguished among his fellows. With 
these and a few necessary articles of clothing and camping utensils 
suited to the journey, he left his pleasant home and friends. 

Imagine him now entertained in hospitable homes, sharing the 
good cheer within, and again cooking his simple meal over a forest 
fire, and lying down to sleep beneath the stars, with only his 
faithful horse to share his solitude. Yet the way was not all 
smooth. He found himself in the hands of unprincipled men, who 
were ready to rob him of the money he had hoarded so carefully, 
and must use so prudently, ere the long journey was accomplished. 
But Jack, ever on the alert, used his revolver with such good ex¬ 
ecution that they failed to gain their object, two of their number 
being killed instantly, and he continued on his way, trusting more 
and more to the protection of the friendly woods as night came on. 

When the Texas border was reached, he found he could be of 
service to a family as “cow-boy”—a term given to those who 
follow the herding of cattle in that locality. He realized that with 
his scanty means the road to affluence must be slow, yet he meant 
it to be sure. He was a mere boy as yet, but he set himself to 
work in this capacity with the energy needed to make him 
thoroughly familiar with his duties, and served so well that the 
owner of the ranch considered him indispensable to his success. 
At the same time he was fitting himself to be the future master of 
a ranch of his own. In addition to this, he was still perfecting 
his skill in trailing, hunting, and trapping, and from the sale of 
skins increased the small sum that he received for his work to a 
considerable amount. 

Y/ e next hear of him as hunter to one of the government 


TEXAS JACK. 


501 

forts. Here was afforded an ample opportunity for the display of 
his wonderful proficiency as a marksman. It suited well his taste, 
as, when mounted on a fleet steed, he rode at will over the immense 
prairies in the healthful excitement of the hunt, excelling all when 
the results of the chase were counted up. As long as he held the 
position the soldiers were never in want of venison, buffalo meat, 
wild turkey, and a great variety of game. Nothing could have 
better aided the full development of his already fine form than this 
free, wild life. 

He was now nearly six feet in height, with an ease of carriage 
and self-possession of manner that betokened ease of mind. Jack 
Omohundro was not ashamed of his deeds. His hair fell in dark 
waves over his shoulders, and gave a softened expression to the 
firm outlines of a face which showed the strength of character that 
afterward separated him from the ordinary frontiersman, and gave 
him a place in history. He wore a buckskin frock, fringed and 
beaded, and leggins of the same material, tucked into high-topped 
cavalry boots armed with spurs. The indispensable belt, with 
weapons of the most approved make, and a gray sombrero, 
completed his attire. 

He now comes to the front as an Indian-fighter. On one of his 
hunting excursions, while enjoying more than usually the delights 
of the chase, he was surprised by the appearance of some sixty In¬ 
dians, and his desire for an opportunity to distinguish himself is 
satisfied. Being in possession of a repeating rifle, he immediately 
commenced an attack, instead of making any attempt at flight, as 
we would have supposed any one man would have done. 

When one after another of the savages fell under the fire of 
the repeating rifle, the others became disconcerted, unaccustomed 
to such a weapon as they were then, and, though they did not re¬ 
treat, hesitated to advance too near. 

Jack was wounded by the arrows that fell thick and fast about 


502 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


him, and also his horse; but he withstood them a long time, until he 
saw a larger band of savages about to reinforce the first. Then he 
concluded to carry the four scalps already obtained from the bodies 
that had fallen near him, with all possible haste to the fort, as proof 
of the engagement, before death should rob him of the glory that 
would be attached to the achievement. Under a shower of arrows 
from the pursuing band, both his horse and himself suffering from 
their wounds, they sped swiftly on, and gained the fort and desired 
distinction. 

From this time as long as he remained at the post, he acted as 
scout and guide, in which field he won new favor; since he counted 
not his own life dear in the service of humanity, saving tnanj' lives 
at the risk of his own. 

Bands of robbers and horse thieves frequented many portions 
of the Western country, and nowhere were they more plentiful than 
in Texas at the time of which we write. 

Now that Jack had become a scout, he longed in some way to 
show his appreciation of this recognition of his services, besides 
being naturally antagonistic to anything like a lawless element. 

Being a close observer, he already had suspicions of a locality 
which might be the hiding-place of a noted band, and as it was 
near the time when supplies were expected for the fort, and he had 
on several occasions seen parties about who not only apparently 
wished to conceal themselves but their intentions, he determined to 
keep close watch in order to prevent any loss, and, if possible, to 
surprise and capture the men. 

A small town near by was a popular resort for loafers and 
gamblers, and afforded Jack an excellent opportunity to continue 
the scrutiny of those whom he suspected. He concluded to play 
the spy. Entering one of the noted gambling houses, in an off¬ 
hand way he stepped up to the bar which invariably accompanies 
such places, and ordered drinks for the crowd. For any one to drink 
alone was considered almost an insult to the bystanders. 


TEXAS JACK. 


503 


This opened the way to friendly conversation, which ended in 
his being invited to “ take a hand for luck.” This would further 
his plans by giving him the chance of hearing whatever might 
throw light on the identity of suspicious individuals. He therefore 
consented; but luck went against him, since, for purposes of his 
own, he made no effort to win. He was soon on excellent terms 
with the set. Jack recognized one among the number as the same 
person whom he had seen lurking near a bluff on the traveled road 
to the fort, and who had hastily passed out of sight, seemingly 
with a view to concealment, when aware of his approach. 

That he had the slightest suspicions that it was Texas Jack 
who surprised him, and who now was engaged in the friendly 
game with himself and friends, is not for a moment to be supposed. 

The bluff to which we have referred was some distance from 
the road, and so situated as to afford easy concealment, if desired. 

The stranger, for such we will call him till we prove his name 
and character, was now in very different costume from the previous 
occasion, yet this was only a confirmation of the truth of Jack’s 
suspicions. Jack himself had so altered his appearance as to be 
hardly recognized. 

The next day, and the next, he sought opportunity for carry¬ 
ing out his plans by adding to the intimacy already existing between 
himself and the stranger. Finally, at urgent solicitation, he accom¬ 
panied him to his home in the mountains, about thirty miles away. 

One and then another joined them there, until there were 
twelve strong, robust men, well armed. It was neaily a week 
before any of their plans were disclosed. The time was spent in 
feasting, drinking, and card playing, with an occasional hunt to 
relieve the monotony. Cautiously they revealed a plot for obtain¬ 
ing stores, and asked Dave Hunter’s assistance, as Jack was now 
called. The work was planned for the following Friday; it was 
now Monday. 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


504 


Jack must have time to warn the soldiers to prepare for an 
attack, and get back without exciting doubts as to his loyalty. It 
was a difficult thing to do, as these sharp, fierce men kept strict 
watch, on account of their short acquaintance. 

He must plan some excuse for absence. On plea of hunting 
to break up the feeling of lassitude that he averred was beginning 
to possess him, he made preparations for departure, purposely in 
the absence of the larger number of those who shared the retreat, 
as less explanation would then be required. 

How he sped over the ground when once at liberty! but not 
in the direction of the fort. He made his way there by a cir¬ 
cuitous route, and by ways as little frequented as any. 

No time was lost in revealing the plot and getting back to the 
stronghold of the robbers, except to obtain game with which to 
satisfy the impression he had given, that hunting was the object of 
his going. He loaded a fine two-year-old buck, which he had easily 
taken, upon his horse, sure that this when dressed and served in 
true mountaineer style would not only gratify their appetites, but 
dispel their doubts as to his loyalty. If any existed. 

They eyed him sharply, as he sprang to the ground, and 
relieved his restless horse from the unaccustomed burden of the 
deer. 

“Where runs the herd from which that buck was taken, 
hunter ? ” said one. 

“ In these mountains, in the small canyon to the west,—fine 
feed there,” replied Jack, or Dave, as he was known tliere. 

“Too fine, I fear, to warrant the finding of much game, my 
friend,” answered another. 

“You’re right, boys. So scanty have I found game in these 
parts for the past two days, it’s a wonder how you exist.” • 

“Trust me, the government Is back of the deer, T^jve, and 
besides, owx f 7 ’iends often share with us ;—sabe ? ” said a third. 


TEXAS JACK. 


505 


“ Aye, lads, ‘It’s a poor town that has only one road leading 
to it.’ But I’m as hungry as a gaunt wolf on a desert island. 
What can you set out?” 

Dave followed the three and was soon cheered by a j^lentiful 
amount of provisions, no less than drinks of different kinds, for 
these were not the men to do things by halves. 

After partaking freely of the food set before him, cautious in 
indulging in the tempting beverages, lest they might, from the 
stupidity they were likely to cause, unfit him for the task he had 
undertaken, he la}’- down to rest from the fatigue of the journey. 

Only two days would intervene before he would be needed in 
the full strength of his manhood, and Texas Jack would serve his 
country as never before. But how could this band of lawless men 
be taken? It would be an easy thing, now that the soldiery were 
warned, to protect the stores, but these desperadoes were a terror 
not to be despised. It would need a clear head to plan, and strong 
arm to execute. 

Let us leave him to his dreams, while we return to the fort 
and note the preparations for going out to meet and defend the 
train coming with supplies. 

The bustle has already begun. The soldiers are eager to be 
engaged, weary of the dullness of camp life. Orders to march are 
given, and soon is heard the tramp, tramp, of the boys in blue. A 
portion of the command was to proceed to a distance beyond the 
supposed point of attack, to make sure of success, while the 
' remainder were to be stationed at the bluff, in accordance with 
Jack’s suggestion. 

Long before these were on their way, another and a strange 
cavalcade made its way down the mountain side, and Jack was with 
it. The direction in which they were moving indicated that the 
two bodies might meet at some point. 

At the head rode the chief in his showy and elegant uniform 


5o6 frontiersmen, pioneers, and scouts. 


of velvet and gold with the emblem of his rank, the gold star, on 
his front. Long and gracefully waving plumes adorned his hat. 
His followers were scarcely less richly attired, except Jack, who had 
not yet been formally adopted into the order, “ The Lone Star 
Knights.” 

A right royal procession in outward semblance, 

Would that their deeds were kingly.” 

They moved toward the bluff, thinking to be in readiness 
when the wagon train, loaded with provisions and ammunition, 
approached. Then it could be easily despoiled. 

Everything was quiet as death until the turn that led to the 
place of concealment was made. Then shots came in quick suc¬ 
cession, and were almost as quickly returned. These cool, deter¬ 
mined men were accustomed to surprises, and not easily unnerved. 
The fight grew fierce and desperate. Men were engaged who 
knew neither retreat nor surrender. Jack fought bravely, and hand 
to hand. But numbers were against the robber band, and one after 
another they fell, either wounded or dead. 

The wounded were carried as prisoners to the fort, and the 
dead were buried by the bluff. Among the dead was Leon Hart¬ 
ley, chief of “ The Lone Star Knights,” who would fight to the 
death, but never be taken alive. 

Jack returned to the fort, but shortly after, though the officers 
were sorry to part with so valuable a scout, he determined to make 
a beginning toward the stocking of the cattle ranch which had been 
his ambition. Herds of wild horses roamed the Texan plains, and 
having found a companion, they started in pursuit. Experts in the 
use of the lariat, it was not long before quite a large numbei: were 
herded and driven to the place where he determined to settle. The 
means he had accumulated enabled him to purchase a ranch and 
begin a substantial business, and one that proved lucrative. Later he 


TEXAS JACK. 


507 


is induced to engage with “ The Buffalo Bill Combination,” in the 
capacity of an actor, with what success we are not informed. But 
frontier life had sufficient attractions to recall him, and we find him 
again at his ranch. IMining also claimed his attention in Colorado, 
this State having become celebrated for its gold ore. 

The region about Leadville exerted a magnetic influence, 
and thither Jack was drawn, seeking' a competence that would 
harmonize with the independent spirit within liim. Strong, not 
only in himself but his material resources, he would then be able 
to gratify at will the promptings he could never silence, to aid his 
fellows whenever occasion offered. In this he was only moder¬ 
ately successful. His ranch still held the precedence as a substantial 
dependence. But like a “ will-o’-the-wisp ” in the distance, he 
ever beheld the glowing treasures he would possess, and expecting 
to approach and grasp them, he continued the pursuit for gold. 
His time was not all occupied in mining. He took as usual a 
general interest in the affairs of the town, which, mushroom-like, 
had suddenly grown to astonishing proportions, and in which had 
congregated a medley of human beings that would afford study for 
an ethnographer. There was enough to engage one of Jack’s 
temperament far more than his leisure hours. Many a night, as 
well as day, was spent in searching out the well-laid schemes of 
treacherous men, and thwarting their designs for robbery and 
murder, or whatever wickedness might be tlisclosed. In not a few 
instances life paid the penalty of their crime. 

On the evening stage from the mountains, June 37, 1S7 — , was 
a jolly trio of men. That their coming would result in mischief 
was only too evident. Partially Intoxicated, they incautiously 
allowed words to escape that gave Jack, who had come to witness 
the arrivals with many others, the key to their plans. They knew 
of the presence in town of a wealthy capitalist having interests in 
that vicinit}^, and believing that he would have a considerable 


5 o8 frontiersmen, pioneers, and scouts. 


amount of ready means about him, they purposed awaiting his 
de^Darture, with the intention of attacking the stage, and obtaining 
it. To frustrate their movements. Jack had asked the assistance of 
two of his friends, and after finding out the time set by the 
gentleman for his trip to the mine he desired to visit, they made 
their way to the spot they thought best suited to the object of 
the desperadoes. They liad some time to wait before the rumbling 
of wheels told the approach of the six-in-hand held by Jake 
Timberlake. They could hear from their elevated position, a 
slight rustling below, and suppressed tones. Just as the team^ 
turned the sharp point of rocks where both parties were concealed, 
“Hands up!” rang out upon the air, and the stage was brought to 
a sudden halt ; but only for a moment, ere Texas Jack with his 
friends, sprang forward. Completely surprised, the robbers could 
do nothing but submit to the same terms they had exacted ; since 
the same invincible weapons stared them in the face with which 
they had compelled obedience. The stage-driver and passengers 
were only too glad to assist in securing the criminals, who were 
firmly bound and taken to the nearest place to await the demands 
of justice. Jack and his comrades returned to their labors, not the 
richer in money—this they would not accept—but happy in the 
consciousness of another victory won. 

Soon after this occurrence he became afflicted with a lunsr 
difficulty, which grew more and more serious, and terminated in 
death. 



f 


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510 
























LIFE OF CAPTAIN JACK. 


POET-BORDER RANKER-(JOES TO BLACK HILLS-METES OUT 

JUSTICE—COMPAxnTOX OF BUFFALO BILL AND CALIFORNIA 
JOE-INDIAN FigIIt^ER TiND SCOUT-PERSONAL APPEAR¬ 
ANCE-INCIDENTS. 

Capt. Jack Crawford^ the poet scout, was a famous border 
ranker similar iu cnaractei to, aAcl sharing iu many of the adven¬ 
tures and experiences of iJuflaiC. Bill and California Joe. 

W hen the excitement broke out iu the Black Hills at the dis¬ 
covery of gold, he, with many otlier^, was attracted in that direc¬ 
tion. In these mining towns that spring up so suddenly, and often 
as quickly disappear, congreg'ate not only the honest miners, ready 
to toil for the exuected gain, but also human parasites, preying up¬ 
on the daily laborer, and winning from him at night all that can be 
made through the day, and sometimes much more. Many are the 
brawls that this condition of affairs begets. Crimes of all kinds 
are prevalent, and hi the absence of law-givers, such men as Capt. 
Jack Crawford, Wild Bill, California Joe, and Texas Jack, answer the 
demands for the meting out of justice. They willingly take this 
upon themselvesw Capt Tack was another example of remark¬ 
able physical strength, and endowed with all, the attributes that, 
combined, made him a chief among his kind, and fitted him for the 
position to which we have referred. 

511 



512 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

Our hero was an Irish boy. When a mere child, his parents 
left their native land with the hope of obtaining a better income in 
America, and reaching this country, settled in a mining com¬ 
munity where there was work for all. Here began for the little 
lad the hard discipline of life, before he had enjoyed the sports of 
boyhood, or the school days that he would have prized. Even at 
his age. Jack was too much of a philosopher to do otherwise tJian 
“ hoe out his row ” to the best of his ability, though standing ready 
to seize the opportunity for study, if it came in his way. It came, 
after a few years, and was so well aj^preciated that it compensated 
largely for the lack of privileges in childhood. A hitherto latent 
talent was developed, which resulted in his often embodying in 
✓erse the doings of his comrades, much to their delight. 

A mining town was well suited to cultivate certain traits, and 
to perfect him in many of the accomplishments which were re¬ 
quired to fit him for the duties of scout and Indian-fighter. After 
establishing, by degrees, his own rights in the community, he had 
many an occasion to defend the lives and property of innocent 
parties, who lacked the self-assertion and physical endowment that 
Jack possessed. 

He entered the civil war as a volunteer, and soon attracted the 
^"■"ention of the officers, among whom he became a general favor¬ 
ite. They made him a special courier at headquarters, on account 
of faithful services, and there it was that he distinguished himself. 
He allowed no obstacle to mar his progress as the bearer of dis¬ 
patches that might involve momentous results—either turn the tide 
of battle in favor, or hasten the disastrous defeat, of the army he 
served. The hottest fire of the enemy deterred him not. Mounted 
on a spirited horse, he dashed fearlessly on, unharmed, while others 
fell in death about him. After his experience in the war, he found 
opportunity to act as carrier of dispatches from one fort to another 
in the West, and won much commendation for the remarkably 


CAPT. JACK, 


513 


quick time he made. This took him over unfrequented roads, and 
through dismal places, where it was necessary to be well armed, 
and to exercise constant vigilance, not only on account of Indians, 
hut robbers. At any moment might be heard “ Hands up,” as one 
entered a narrow pass or rocky glen. Only the more muscular and 
brave thought of resistance, for life must pay the forfeit in most 
cases. Jack’s motto was victory, if a bold front and a valiant fight 
could win it; on the other hand, death without fear. We know 
the seeming magic of a life thus animated, and we say “ he bears a 
charmed life,” when escape from harm is solely the result of a noble 
purpose so filling the soul as to inspire to the utmost every mental 
and physical energy. 

Fortune placed him in the way of Bufifalo Bill, of whom he 
had heard. He admired the wonderful skill of this notorious buf¬ 
falo-hunter, and also the many exhibitions of his untiring zeal in 
whatever he undertook—a quality of character which, more 
than any other, earns success for its possessor. Jack de¬ 
sired to become a scout, like his newly found friend. Op¬ 
portunity soon offered the coveted position. Will it surprise 
any, when we assert that he achieved in this field a repu¬ 
tation equal to that of the noted scout he so much es¬ 
teemed? With the traits already accorded him, failure would have 
been impossible. Second under Buffalo Bill as scout with Custer 
and his brave three hundred in that last charge, he maintained his 
standing, fighting with desperation, though against great odds. 

In Indian fighting he was the equal of the most noted of his 
class. Man}^ a redskin was arrested in the fulfillment of vengeful 
designs by the prompt appearance of Jack upon the scene of 
action, who never failed to do good execution with the trusty 
weapons he always carried. 

His attention was several times turned to mining. We have 
mentioned the Black Hills excitement. He amassed sufficient 


5H 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


means to place him in comfortable circumstances. Mining, once 
entered upon, however, possesses an attraction that is seldom lost, 
and we find Jack no exception. As long as earth yields up her 
treasure will men toil for gain. Life in the West also satisfied his 
love for excitement and adventure. Here was ample scope for his 
ambition. Her boundless prairies and her rugged mountains fur¬ 
nished a vast field for the exercise of his powers. Our hero was at 
home. 

Imagine Jack Crawford in possession of a mining property 
from which he realized a fair income, situated in a picturesque 
mountain range which afforded a goodly variety of game, and gave 
that freedom of action so characteristic of the man; whose peaks in¬ 
spired song, and whose valleys were restful to gaze upon. Nestled 
among the hills was a little cabin, over which trailed in profusion 
the wild cypress vine and the morning glory, and inside the simple 
furnishings of a pioneer home. Not only valuable weapons and 
trophies of war adorned the walls, but what was unusual, books, 
which our poet-scout had learned to value. From the door-way 
could be seen the sharers of his adventures and participators in the 
hunt, cropping the fragrant grass upon the hillside. 

Any one in trouble welcomed the face of Capt. Jack. There 
was no doubt but he would render the needed assistance. “ Fair 
play” was the creed of this man and he lived it. Though some¬ 
what rough in exterior, an inward refinement often revealed itself 
in kindly acts. His clear, friendly eyes carried a benediction in 
their gaze, and the hand that grasped yours sent a thrill of magnetic 
influence that told of power. There was nothing unusual in his 
dress to distinguish him from many another scout, but his manners 
and bearing revealed at once the superiority that we claim. We 
have none of his verses to place before the reader, yet we trust he 
will see in the deeds he performed, unwritten poems, bearing the 
stamp of true eloquence. 


1 


I 






















r 


/ 


I 








s 


516 





























/ 


LIFE OF GEN. GEO. CROOK. 


CHAPTER I. 

UNEXPECTED ARRIVAL AT TUCSON--RECEPTION AND BANQUET- 

SPEECHES AND TOASTS-OPINIONS OF ARMY REPRESENT¬ 
ATIVES-SENTIMENTS OF THE PEOPLE-EXPERIENCES DUR¬ 
ING RECENT CAMPAIGN-CAPTIVES HELD BY INDIANS RE¬ 
LEASED-A VEXED QUESTION SETTLED. 

« 

“ On the evening of June 22, a medium-sized man, with 
bushy whiskers, dressed in a gray suit, and wearing a Japanese 
summer hat, without any military trappings or style whatever, 
stepped from the platform of a car of the West-bound passenger 
train at Tucson, walked quickly up to the hotel register of the Porter 
House, and inscribed in a bold, round hand, ‘ George Crook, U. S. 
A.’ Underneath were written the names of John G. Bourke, G. 
J. Fiebeger, and G. A. McCreery, also of the U. S. A. 

“ Then it was that a gentle buzz went through the crowd, 
‘ There’s Crook,’ and all hands pressed round the doorway to get 
a peep at the great warrior. 

“ The news spread rapidly, so that, dinner over, when the party, 
after a drive about the town, accompanied by all the local, muni¬ 
cipal, county, and federal officers, stopped at Levin’s Park, the 
little cottonwood grove was filled with people anxious to see and 

517 



FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


51^ 

shake hands with the hero of the hour. Here he was entertained 
with music and song until a late hour. As he passed out of the 
gate, the assembled multitude gave him three hearty cheers. 

‘‘ On the following day a public reception and banquet were 
given Gen. Crook at Masonic Hall. For two hours a steady line 
of people filed by, being introduced individually by the Mayor, 
and shaking hands with the distinguished soldier. Invited guests 
then repaired to the banquet hall, which was handsomely festooned 
with bunting and drapery in red, white and blue colors. The gen¬ 
eral and officers accompanying him, and officers from Fort Lowell, 
were in full uniform. These bright uniforms, interspersed in the 
crowd of ladies variously costumed in light and gauzy materials, 
with the inevitable dress suit of black worn by the gentlemen, pre¬ 
sented a very pleasing picture. It was a mirthful crowd, and we 
doubt if a more intellectual one could be found anywhere on a sim¬ 
ilar occasion ” During Mayor Strauss’ address of welcome, he re¬ 
marked that it was one of the most pleasurable moments of his life 
that he should be the humble instrument in the hands of the peo¬ 
ple, to welcome the hero who has done more for Arizona than 
Arizona has done for herself. 

Gen. Crook then responded: 

“ His Honor, the Mayor, among other things, has said that 
‘brevity is the soul of wit.’ Now, if that is true, I propose to be 
very witty. I have been on an exploring expedition, and have had 
a rough time of it, and I am very glad to get back again. I heart¬ 
ily thank you for all kindness shown me.” 

A poem and the customary toasts were next in order. 

“ The United States Army,” replied to by Bvt.-Maj. Gen. 
Eugene A. Carr, Col. Sixth Cav. U. S. A., in a most appreciative 
way, recalled the days of the first gold fever, when the pay of 
officers on the Pacific Slope would not begin to support them, and 
they were obliged to resort to all sorts of shifts in order to live. 


GEN. GEO. CROOK. 


519 

Our own Crook was among that number, as Col. Carr proved 
by relating an actual experience of those times. 

“ Two young officers arranged to supply with game one of the 
small towns in Oregon. One was to do the hunting, the other the 
selling. The hunter was Crook. [Long continued applause.] 
‘It was in hunting for his living, after graduating at West Point, 
and becoming a commissioned officer,’ says Carr, ‘ that he com¬ 
menced to acquire the knowledge of woodcraft and of the ways 
and habits of Indians, which now results in such great benefit to 
the people of Arizona, and reflects such honor and credit on the 
United States Army. 

“ There has been some dispute as to who brought Gen. Crook 
out here. I understand that the Governor and the Delegate both 
claim the credit. I also claim a part of it. I told the Secretary of 
War last summer that Crook could do the business. [Applause,] 
I would not have had him know it before, as he left a much larger 
command and more desirable station, and there was of course some 
question of luck; but now I hope that his success, and the prospect 
it opens, will make him forgive those who needed him here. 
[Great applause.] I do not know how he likes his sobriquet, but 
it is one which is likely to stick, and I close by saying that the 
army is proud and glad of the honors now added to its record by 
the ‘ Gray Fox.’ ” [Cheers.] 

In answer to the toast, “ The President of the United States,” 
Hon. W. A. Sheldon, Judge of the First Judicial District of Ari¬ 
zona, besides many good and true sayings, made this assertion: 

“ It is not necessary for us to go beyond our own confines to 
see the evidences of that wisdom that has characterized our Presi¬ 
dent. The assignment of the distinguished guest of the evening, 
Gen. Crook, to the command of this Department, shows con¬ 
clusively that he understood the situation, and knew the man to fill 
it. He well knew that the General would carry the war—not into 


520 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS, 


Africa—but into Mexico, if it was necessary for the accomplish¬ 
ment of his purpose.” 

In concluding the account of the feast, we cannot forbear 
giving “ The Tiger ” by Col. J. A. Zahriskie; “ It is no easv task 
to represent such an animal upon the spur of the moment. I 
never could understand why the last toast of the evening should he 
thus denominated, excejDt upon the hypothesis that at about this 
stage of the proceedings the guest is supposed to he in a condition 
to growl. But it is suggested that the tiger in this case is a mis¬ 
nomer; that it is not to be understood in its literal sense; that it is 
strictly metaphorical, and that this peculiar appellation has refer¬ 
ence to a concluding hurrah—a sort of grand finale, a spontaneous 
outburst of generous enthusiasm over the brilliant and unsurpassed 
military achievem.ent of our guest. With this view of the case, 
then, I accept ‘ The Tiger,” and feel proud to add my testimony to 
the universal judgment of the American people on this subject. 

“After the years of turmoil and bloodshed to which this Terri¬ 
tory had been subjected, the people had almost surrendered hope 
of better days. The material interests of the country were almost 
crushed, and the prospects for future prosperity were held in abey¬ 
ance by these periodical outbursts of savage fury. We have now 
probably seen the end; undoubtedly so, if wise and sagacious 
counsel prevail. The people feel grateful for this unexpected 
relief, and In the fullness of gratitude, they can hold up their hands 
in reverence, and thank this administration for sending them an 
officer possessing the ability to comprehend, the determination to 
undertake, and the consummate skill to execute successfully.” 

Don Juan Zubiran, a former Mexican consul In this country, 
believes Crook to be “ a gallant, noble, self-sacrificing officer, who 
will do his duty to the letter, and who, as an Indian-fighter, Is 
equal to the best, and inferior to none who have tried their chances 
with the wily savages for half a century past” 


GEN. GEO. CROOK, 


521 


On hearing the news of Gen. Crook’s successful campaign at 
Prescott, A. T,, the people called a meetmg, which was addressed 
by Gov. Tritle, Hon. J. J. Gosper, and many distinguished citizens 
ready to give due honor to the bronzed veteran. 

A resolution was adopted returning thanks to Gen. Crook and 
the brave officers and soldiers under his command. Such expres¬ 
sions of gratitude come from every nook and corner of Arizona. 

“ The war is not ended, but it is nearer an end than it has been 
since the day that the freedom of Sonora was given to the 
Chiricahuas. 

“If the Secretary of War will now allow Gen. Crook to finish 
the work, we have no doubt he will do so in such a way as to 
thoroughly satisfy all sections of the country.” This is another of 
the many evidences of the estimation in which the subject of our 
sketch is held. 

We have thus chosen, before giving historical data in con¬ 
nection with the life and services of Gen. Crook, to analyze the 
sentiments of the people in the locality where his recent work has 
been done, by placing before our readers the manner in which he 
was welcomed from the field by those whom he has especially 
served, and thereby lead to a correct appreciation of his services. 

We have copied from The Arizona Weekly Citizeit.^ published 
at Tucson, which contains the most reliable information on the 
subject. 

We will now go back to the first day of May, when the 
dangers and uncertainties that resulted in such favorable conse¬ 
quences, began. May morning, bright and early, the expedition 
entered Mexico by way of San Bernardino Creek, having pre¬ 
viously obtained the co-operation of the Mexican government. It 
consisted of Brig.-Gen. Crook; Capt. J. G. Bourke, Third Cavalry, 
acting Assistant Adjutant General; Lieut. G. J. Fiebeger, engineer 
officer and acting aide-de-camp; Capt. Adna R. Chaffee, Sixth 


522 


FROI^TIERSMBNy PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS 


Cavalry, commanding troop I of forty-two men, and his Lieuten¬ 
ants, Frank West and W. W. Forsyth; Capt. Emmet Crawford, 
Third Cavalry; Lieut. C. B. Gatewood, Sixth Cavalry, com¬ 
manding Indian scouts; Lieut. J. O. Mackey, Third Cavalry, and 
Dr. George E. Andrews, acting Assistant Surgeon; one hundred 
and ninety-three Indian scouts, consisting of twenty-three White 
Mountain Apaches, and the remainder made up of San Carlos, 
Tonto, Yuma, and Apache-Mojave Indians; five pack trains of 
about fifty-two mules each, and seventy-six packers. There were 
also with the expedition A1 Sieber, guide and scout; Archie 
McIntosh, Suviena, and Mickey Free, interpreters, and Mr. 
Randall, a photographer. 

At San Bernardino Major James Biddle was left in command 
of four troops of the Sixth Cavalry, and one of the Third Cavalry, 
as a reserve. They were supplied with provisions for sixty days. 

The order of march was as follows: The Indian scouts, with 
Gen. Crook and staff, and Capt. Crawford; Lieuts. Gatewood and 
Mackey, and the guide, A1 Sieber; then the pack trains, and, 
finally, Capt. Chaffee and Lieuts. West and Forsyth bringing up 
the rear with troop I. The cavalry was used to guard the pack 
trains while on the march. 

The following reliable historic outline will show with what 
forces Gen. Crook was to deal, their numbers and surroundings: 

In the west side of the Sierre Madre Range, in Mexico, in al¬ 
most an inaccessible stronghold, were about four hundred Indians, 
including women and children, hostile to the whites, and at inter¬ 
vals swooping down upon the peaceful inhabitants of Mexico and 
our frontier settlements. Among these was the remnant of Vic- 
torio’s Warm Spring band under Nane, Victorio having been killed 
by Mexican troops after carrying out to the bitter end, his vow 
made to Agent Thomas that ‘‘ he would die, but never go to San 
Carlos.” Also Loco, a Warm Spring once with Victorio, who 


GEN. GEO. CROOK, 


523 

went to San Carlos under protest, but remained quietly until 1882. 
At that time sixty armed hostiles came in from Mexico on the 
reservation, and Loco’s band being unarmed, they were bound 
hand and foot, and carried off before aid could arrive from the 
agency to which they had sent word. 

Such of his band as were willing to fight, were furnished with 
arms, and the entire party, including some seventy women and 
children of the Warm Springs, swept down through Arizona, kill¬ 
ing such citizens as chanced to be in their path, twice encountering 
United States troops. About thirteen of their number were killed 
before they crossed the line. The Mexicans met them soon after, 
and reported seventy killed; but they killed women and children.^ 
taking no prisoners. 

Besides these there were the Chiricahuas who, under Juh 
(Hoo) left the San Carlos reservation in October, 1881. 

Nine years they kept their treaty of peace made with Gen. O. 
O. Howard in 1872, through their famous chief Cochise, or until 
after the death of the latter, which was that they would cease to 
raid, rob, and murder on United States territory. They were 
at that time on a reservation of their choice, and afterward were 
removed to San Carlos, much against their will. At length dis¬ 
satisfaction arose on account of the imprisonment of certain bands 
by the military, and the following night they started for Mexico, 
committing depredations, and killing from point to point on the 
way, until they reached their old rendezvous in the mountains. And 
since there are so many evil deeds to record against this Apache 
tribe, we will not neglect to mention the honest act of Juh, who, 
the night before his departure, went to the agency and returned 
five dollars which had been loaned him by one of the employes. 

We left our expedition ready to set out. Traveling southward 
for sixteen miles, they camped on the right bank of Elias Creek, 
a mile above the old ranch known as the Lower San Bernardino. 


524 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS 


Here sage grass grew in abundance, from three to four feet 
high, wood and water were found in plenty, and also game, so that 
on this day venison and wild turkey were added to the rations 
already provided. 

Another sixteen miles was made May 2, still south, though 
over a rougher trail than the preceding day. Numerous ravines 
were crossed, and at many points cavalry-men were obliged to dis¬ 
mount and pick their way. 

They camped on the Bavispe River on the 3d, after having 
marched twenty-two miles. Now and then a little glen or valley 
varied the scene. They found cool shade here, and the fragrance 
of flowers, and the songs of birds to cheer them. The yellow blos¬ 
som of the mesquite shed a delicious perfume. They also found 
pure water in abundance. Yet, with all these comforts, the journey 
was a perilous one. 

Eighteen miles further on brought them near the town of Bas- 
araca on the same river, built on a tableland in the Bavisp. Valley. 
As they toiled along, the inhabitants of the place, numbering five 
hundred, came out upon the bluffs on which the town is built, to 
watch the passage of the soldiers through the country. The trail 
grew rougher still, and sixteen miles on the 6th, was all that 
could be accomplished. They passed through a small town called 
Huachinera, and came to an old Mexican ranch called Teserebobi, 
which has been in ruins since 1842. It must not be forgotten that 
the scorching rays of the sun beat upon the traveler in this section 
of the country, with indescribable intensity. To get relief from 
this, after several days’ exposure, it was found expedient to lay in 
camp on the 7th, and continue the march at night. 

They changed their course, which had been southerly, after 
going ten miles, and entered the Sierra Madres, to the east. 

The trail was almost impassable, full of danger, and it would 
have been useless to have attempted it without a guide. Several 


GEN GEO CROOK. 


525 


mules lost footing, rolled down the mountain side, and were killed. 
Those who have looked upon the rugged foothills and precipitous 
peaks of these mountains, rising one above another, can imagine the 
peril of the situation, though faintly, while none can ever realize 
the hazardous undertaking of the commander of this expedition. 
May 8 they marched twelve miles and camped on the banks of 
a pretty little mountain stream, which sparkled at an altitude of five 
thousand feet. 

They were obliged now, when again setting out, to abandon 
riding altogether. Besides being dangerous, the way was wild and 
rough, and signs of Indians began to appear. They continued 
their journey dismounted, until seven more mdes of the same fright¬ 
ful road were passed over, going through several deserted Chiri- 
cahua ranches, all of which were fortified, and camped in one 
of these, near where the Indians fought the Mexicans last spring, 
and killed several. 

Two packers came in on the iith, who were supposed to 
be lost or captured, having been sent ahead the day pievious with 
axes to clear the trail, and had not returned as expected. A number 
of stray Indian ponies were picked up. No game of any con¬ 
sequence could be found. 

Nine miles each for the next four days with similar experiences, 
the journey still perilous in the extreme, brought them to the side 
of a ravine, where they rested. This was the 15th of May, and the 
stronghold which the Ind ans had so long boasted could not be 
penetrated by our soldiers, was reached, the savages completely 
surprised, and a victory virtually accomplished. 

It was about five miles from the camping ground where the 
engagement between Capt. Crawford’s scouts and the Chiricahuas 
took place. They had been sent ahead on the nth. Vei*y little 
resistance was shown on the part of the Indians. But little hostility 
was evinced. They were evidently tired of exile in a region where 


526 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


means of subsistence were so scanty. Many of them, like old Loco* 
had been out almost under duress, and were ready to yield them¬ 
selves to the protection of the General whose brave and noble 
qualities had won their confidence. Besides this, quite a number of 
their braves were away, and they were ill-prepared for a contest 
with such a warrior as they knew Crook to be. 

A number of prisoners were brought in, and property which 
had evidently been stolen; Winchester rifles, watches, and money. 
Here let us reflect for a moment on the sufferings that even so 
light an engagement must have wrought. It is an easy thing to 
ridicule the results of battle as small, when seated at home in ease 
and comfort, and a common failing to look upon matters as trifles 
that have even caused blood to flow and life to go out, a sacrifice to 
humanity. But let us not forget the brave scouts who fought this, 
our battle, so that not one of our soldiers was sacrificed, and let us 
in this generation be broad enough to accord due merit to the hum¬ 
blest, and our sympathy wherever there is suffering. 

The march was resumed on the 17th, and the next camping 
place was near the sight of the deserted ranch destroyed in the 
battle of the 15th. 

Indians here began to come in in small detachments and ask 
to be allowed to surrender. While camped in a large pine grove 
four miles further on, a pretty little Indian girl came to Dr. 
Andrews’ tent with a bullet hole through the hand, received during 
the fight at the village. 

o o 

Nane, Chato and over 260 other Indians came into the camp 
on the 33d, making in all 285, including forty-eight warriors and 
a large number of bucks capable of handling a rifle. These reported 
Juh, who had been their head chief, as having gone with his squaw 
to live in the Yaqui country, his tribe having become dissatisfied 
with him. It is believed that all the hostiles came in with the 
chiefs, Geronimo, Chato, Hatches, Nane and Loco. Nane and 


/ 





527 


APACHE INDIANS SCALPING 

































































































































































































































































































































528 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS, 


Loco started with our army on the homeward march. The other 
chiefs were sent out to hunt up the squaws and children who fled 
in different directions at the time' of the encounter, and to bring: 
them in. Gen. Crook believes that they will do this, as they 
were completely humbled and surrendered in good faith, if the 
government will sustain him In his policy toward them. The 
Interior Department cannot afford to act in opposition to one who 
has so well proved his ability to cope with the present difficulty by 
his success in the past, in subduing the Sioux and other Indian 
tribes, and getting their good will and support to such an extent 
that they are ready to fight for him. 

If it should be decided to imprison them in a military fort, 
instead of setting them to work on the Reservation, then we cannot 
expect them to come in voluntarily. They must have faith that 
Gen. Crook can protect them. 

Not one of the least fruits of this expedition was the release of 
captives held by the Chiricahuas. 

About the ist of February, Judge McComas and wife were 
massacred while journeying through New Mexico, and their eight- 
year-old boy carried to the mountains. This boy was heard from 
as alive and well. It Is believed that he will be returned. Five 
Mexican women and one small child were brought in. These 
were found to be residents of Chihuahua, and wives of soldiers 
in the Mexican army. The child was the two-year-old son of 
Mrs. Antonio Hernandez, which she had carried in her arms 
during the fourteen days of their captivity. They were placed 
under the protection of the Mexican Consul at Tucson, through 
whom the following facts were elicited. The command to which 
their husbands were attached had been stationed about three 
hundred miles northwest of the city of Chihuahua at a place 
on the Mexican frontier named El Carmen. The troops had been 
ordered home, and the women followed their husbands at a distance 


GEN. GEO. CROOK. 


529 


ot two days’ journey behind, traveling on foot. On the loth of 
May they were surprised by a band of Apaches, under the personal 
command of Geronimo. The Indians suddenly rose up from behind 
the rocks and bushes. The women, being greatly terrified, began 
screaming, when a Mexican captive named Jose, who had long 
been with the Indians, came forward and addressed them in 
Spanish, assuring them that no harm would come to them if they 
would surrender and follow the Apaches. There was no other 
alternative. They were asked a great many questions in reference 
to the Mexican soldiers, as to their numbers and plans. They 
traveled all that day and night, and the next morning were a long 
distance from the place of capture, which is known as Cerritos 
Cuates. For three days they were without water, but after that it 
was found in abundance. The country through which they passed 
was wild beyond description. At times they were obliged to crawl 
on all fours. 

Toward the latter part of their captivity the food commenced 
giving out, small rations of raw beef being given them, which had 
to be divided among the six. The Indian children took great de¬ 
light in tormenting the little Mexican boy who was carried in the 
arms of his mother. The last two days they had no food at all. 
The cold of the mountains was intense, and the women suffered, 
almost freezing. They were made to work hard whenever camp 
was made. They traveled many miles a day, and were forced to 
keep up. The exposure to cold, thirst, famine, exhaustion from 
travel, and fear of torture, was having its effect upon the women. 
One day a brother of the chief Chato delivered them up to Gen. 
Crook. As one of them expressed herself: “When I saw Gen. 
C“ook and the soldiers, it seemed as if the sky opened and heaven 
appeared.” 

Their condition was a pitiable one, and excited the deep¬ 
est sympathy. Mules were furnished each of the women to ride 


34 


530 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 

on their return, and this was one reason for the slowness of travel 
of Gen. Crook’s command. 

When these women are returned to their friends, as they un¬ 
doubtedly will be by tbe Mexican government, and husbands 
welcome wives, and the father clasps his child once more in his 
arms, Gen. Crook and his gallant soldiers will receive added tributes 
of praise and thanksgiving, and their memory be engraved forever 
upon the hearts of all the soldiers of Chihauhua. 

Now, gratitude from them and from us to the brave scout, who 
guided the expedition to the stronghold of the enemy. 

We are pleased to learn of the existing harmony between the 
War Department and Gen. Crook, and gladly add the result of 
the conference between the Interior, the Commissioner of Indian 
Affairs, the Secretary of War, and Brigadier-General Crook, 
held July 7, 1883 : 

“ In view of the difficulty encountered in making a satisfactory disposition 
of the Apache Indians recently captured by Gen. Crook, under the existing 
methods of the administration, it is determined by the Secretary of War and 
Secretary of the Interior, after considerable discussion, that the Apache 
Indians recently captured by Gen. Crook, and all such as may hereafter be 
captured, or who may surrender themselves to him, shall be kept at such points 
on the San Carlos reservation as may be determined by the War Department, 
but not at the agency without the consent of the Indian agent, to be fed and cared 
for by the War Department until further orders. For the greater security of 
the people of Arizona and to insure peace, the War Department shall be 
intrusted with the entire police control of all Indians on San Carlos reservation, 
charged with the duty of keeping peace on the reservation, and preventing the 
Indians from leaving it, except with the consent of Gen. Crook or the officer 
who may be authorized to act under him ; the War Department shall protect 
the Indian agent in the discharge of his duties as agent, which shall include the 
ordinary rules of the Indian agent, which shall remain as heretofore, except as 
to keeping peace, administering justice and punishing refractory Indians, all of 
which shall be done by the War Department as above stated.” 

(Signed), Robt. T. Lincoln, Secretary of War» 

H. M. Teller, Secretary of the Interior. 


GEN. GEO. CROOK. 


531 


CHAPTER II. 

BIRTH- LIFE AT WEST POINT - RISE IN REGULAR ARMY - 

COMES TO THE FRONT ON PACIFIC COAST-WINS DISTINCTION 

AS AN INDIAN FIGHTER-HIS CIVIL WAR RECORD-MAJ.— 

GEN. U. S. VOLUNTEERS - SECOND CAREER IN REGULAR 

ARMY-ASSIGNED TO MILITARY DEPARTMENT OF ARIZONA 

-PTRST VICTORY OVER THE APACHES-POLICY WITH THE 

INDIANS-ADVANCES AGAINST SITTING BULL- ANOTHER 

BRILLIANT VICTORY-CAUSES OF RETURN TO ARIZONA- 

BRIGADIER.-GEN. IN REGULAR ARMY. 

This celebrated military man and Indian-fighter, whose recent 
achievements we have chronicled in the previous chapter, was born 
near Dayton, Ohio, September, 1828. He was educated in the 
public schools of the State, and at the age of eighteen, after jiassing 
a severe examination, was admitted to West Point, where he re¬ 
ceived the military education that laid the foundation for his promi¬ 
nent career during our civil war. 

In early youth he evidenced that ability for studying and read¬ 
ing character, which has so distinguished him in his campaigns 
against the various Indian tribes. 

In 1852, being then twenty-four, having completed his studies 
and training at West Point, he was breveted Second Lieutenant in 
the Fourth United States Infantry, and immediately entered active 
service in the extreme West. 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS, 


532 


One year of efficient service ended, he was made a full Second 
Lieutenant, and 1856 finds him promoted to the position of First 
Lieutenant, in which capacity he served faithfully in the Rogue 
River (Oregon) expedition. These were the years during which 
he was becoming proficient in woodcraft, and in the knowledge 
of the habits and modes of life peculiar to the Indian; when the 
pay of the soldier was so limited as often to necessitate exertion on 
his own part in order to obtain anything like a generous living; 
and it was the time when Crook won distinction as a hunter by 
supplying one of the small towns in Oregon with game, as told by 
Gen. Carr. 

He came conspicuously to the front on the Pacific Coast in 
1857, when he conducted a vigorous campaign against the Modoc 
Indians. At this time he was stationed at Fort Jones, Scott’s 
Valley, in California. With a mere handful of soldiers he suc¬ 
ceeded in overcoming this powerful tribe, and in making a substan¬ 
tial treaty with them. These Indians had risen, and massacred 
nearly all the settlers in the great rich valley of Pitt River, and 
volunteer companies, gathered from miles around, had assembled 
and fought the savages. Lieut. Crook dismissed these volunteers, 
and won a victory with his own men. It is a fact worthy of men¬ 
tion, that he fought over the same ground, and subdued the same 
tribe of Indians, the Modocs, with his few soldiers, that held the 
famous lava beds nearly twenty years later, against a large force 
of the Regular Army. He had but one company under his com¬ 
mand, and the Indians were far stronger numerically, than when 
led by Capt. Jack, chief of the Modocs. This brilliant victory gave 
him his first distinction as an Indian-fighter. His success lay in an 
invincible determination and unhesitating execution, coupled with 
his eminent capability for understanding Indian character, and his 
bestowal of fair treatment as a reward for good behavior on their 


Dart. 


GEN. GEO. CROOK. 


533 


Nearly a thousand women and children of this tribe had been 
killed, before « Crook, with his Regulars, came around the great 
peak of snow through the pines, and established something like 
discipline, and a code of civilized warfare,” says Miller. It is 
Mount Shasta that overlooks the Pitt River Valley. 

In May, i86i. Crook received a Captain’s commission in the 
Regular Army, and four months later was made Colonel of the 
Thirty-Sixth Ohio Volunteers, serving with great credit in Vir¬ 
ginia and West Virginia. Here, having been breveted a Brigadier- 
General in the Volunteer Service, Sept. 7, 1862, he was engaged 
in the famous and successful battles of South Mountain and Antie- 
tam. Sept. 14 and 17. We find him at Chickamauga, “The River 
of Death,” Sept. 19-20, 1863. In October of this year he received 
the rank of Brevet-Colonel of the Regular Army, and within a 
year was made Brevet Major-General of Volunteers while actively 
engaged in the field. He was at Perryville, Fisher’s Hill, and the 
Shenandoah Campaign in 1864. He also figured conspicuously in 
Sheridan’s command before Richmond. The fall of this year, 1864, 
finds him a full Major-General of U. S. Volunteers. 

The years 1865-6 were occupied in command of the depart¬ 
ment at Wilmington, N. C. In the spring of 1865 he had been 
breveted a Brigadier-General of the Regular Army. He was 
mustered out of the Volunteer Service, January, 1866. 

During the Civil War he had been engaged in some of the 
bloodiest battles of Virginia, West Virginia, Tennessee, North and 
South Carolina, Maryland and Georgia. In the reports of these 
engagements Gen. Crook is often spoken of as “ gallant, meritori¬ 
ous and distinguished,” and his frequent promotions were the re¬ 
sults of successful combats with the enemy. Nor has he escaped 
unscathed, for he has been wounded on several occasions, but was 
never absent for any great length of time from the field of con¬ 
flict. 


534 


FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


He soon entered the second time upon his career in the Regular 
Army, as Major of the Third Infantry. This was in July, 1866, 
the same year that brought to a close his labors in the Volunteer 
Service. It was not long before he was transferred to the Twenty- 
Third Infantry and made its Colonel. Thus we find him starting 
on a new field of success and rapid promotion, in the far West, 
where he further distinguished himself by his shrewdness and 
sagacity in dealing with Indian character. 

“A short time before his arrival a new fort had been established 
near Harney Lake, Oregon, and named Fort Crook. With char¬ 
acteristic modesty, he changed the name of the fort from that of 
his own name, to Camp Harney, although the old Fort Crook of 
Northern California had long since ceased to figure as a fort,” says 
a historian. We find this trait a marked feature of his life, recog¬ 
nized in recent days as then, since we read of him as “ the brave 
soldier and modest gentleman.” What wonder if the majestic snow- 
peaks of Oregon helped to nourish this attribute, or her sierras to 
inspire brave deeds. We leave him there till 1871, when he went 
to Arizona, having been assigned to the military department as 
Lieut.-Col. of the Twenty-Third Infantry. About this time the 
attention of the Government was called to the bloodthirsty deeds 
and fearful ravages of the Apaches in Northern Mexico and 
Arizona. These Apache tribes numbered nearly nine thousand, 
and for years had resisted every attempt to settle the rich valleys of 
the Territory, and to develop the valuable mines of silver, gold and 
copper, now become so famous. The cruelties and atrocities per¬ 
petrated upon settlers and miners are indescribable. Over four hun¬ 
dred citizens were murdered in the most barbarous manner, within 
a very short time, in addition to the robberies committed. Whoever 
appeared in the highways during the day expected and were pre¬ 
pared for bloody work. The night-time was used as much as pos¬ 
sible for journeying, and even for working. Arizona was at that 


GEN. GEO\ CROOK. 


5^5 


time separated from the rest of the country, by almost impassable 
deserts, and only connected by long stretches of overland stage roads. 
The Indians were familiar with every inch of ground, not exclud¬ 
ing the mountain ranges whose every stronghold might avail them 
for a home, and from long years of warfare with other tribes, they 
had become the most warlike and fierce of all frontier tribes. 
Crook had been selected as a man of especial fitness to command 
forces against them. Up to the time of his arrival, these savages 
had never been conquered by white men, and for years Arizona 
had been the scene of a series of fierce and sanguinary struggles. 

Crook’s campaign marked a new era in Indian warfare here as 
it already had in Oregon. He gathered around him the most ambi¬ 
tious officers of his command, fired them with his own intrepid 
spirit, and led them forth into the mountains, filled with a deter¬ 
mination to conquer these hostile red men. The plan of using one 
tribe of Indians, as soon as conquered, to pursue and subdue others, 
was adopted. By this means in an exceedingly short space of time 
he overcame all the Apache tribes, with the single exception of the 
Chricahuas, and placed them on reservations. 

His plan was to give the Indians individual homes, teach them 
agriculture, educate their children, and surround them with the in¬ 
fluences of civilization. A beginning was made near Camp Verde. 
Under Gen. Crook’s management, they prepared land for planting. 
Having no agricultural implements they were obliged to use the 
sharpened ends of burnt sticks, and with these and old hatchets and 
spades they accomplished considerable, planting fifty acres of 
land. In addition to this they made an irrigating ditch five miles 
long, to bring water to their fields. They also laid out a village 
in rectangular streets, which they swept every morning, and in it 
they built their huts. They evinced an interest in earning money 
for themselves, by cutting wood to supply the quartermaster’s de¬ 
partment. This condition of affairs was interrupted, unfortunately. 


536 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


and for reasons variously stated, they were placed on the San 
Carlos Reservation, and “ the peace that Gen. Crook had made with 
them was j^ractically nullified.” Had the Government appreciated 
Gen. Crook’s plans, and acquiesced in them, the Apache wars would 
have been ended. Placing them on a reservation, feeding and 
clothing them, while they spent their time in idleness, was a mistaken 
policy, as the valuable lives that have since been sacrificed will prove. 

It was early in 1873 that Gen. Crook announced the surrender 
of large numbers of hostile Indians, the desire of their chiefs for 
peace and the terms on which they had agreed, and in the fall of 
this year he was made Brigadier-General in the Regular Army. 
When we reflect that there was hardly a family but mourned the 
loss of relatives and friends in the struggle for citizenship in Arizona, 
it cannot be doubted that numberless thanksgivings and rejoicings 
went up, and that gratitude toward the great peace-maker filled 
every heart at the close of the war. Soon after this Gen. Crook 
was transferred to the Army of the Platte, and in 1875, in the 
months of February and March, in the midst of a severe winter, en¬ 
tered upon a campaign yet fresh in the minds of many of our read¬ 
ers, in which he defeated Crazy Horse and his braves, with but slight 
loss to his troops. In the following year he entered upon another 
great Indian war, leading the expedition in person', against the allied 
forces under Sitting Bull. He fought and drove the Sioux, three 
thousand strong, under Crazy Horse and White Antelope, on the 
Rosebud, June 17, 1876, and forced them to retreat to the Little 
Big Horn, where Custer was killed. Afterward he made that ex¬ 
traordinary march without wagons or tents, for weeks, persistently 
following the trail until he came upon the hostiles at Slim Buttes, 
where he fought and defeated them with great loss. The Indians 
fled in dismay across the border into the British Possessions. This 
virtually ended the war, and soon after Crazy Horse and his bucks 
came in and surrendered. From that time as long as he remained 


GEN. GEO. CROOK. 


537 


in that department, Gen. Crook was feared and revered by the 
Sioux to such an extent that no serious troubles occurred. 

No one having been found to successfully cope with the rene¬ 
gade Indians in Arizona, not for want of bravery, but from lack of 
knowledge of Indian character, it was then that Gen. Crook, in re¬ 
sponse to the repeated requests of the people, was returned to the 
Military Department of that Territory, in the fall of 1882. He 
was able at this time to settle difficulties that had begun to assume 
dangerous proportions. Some of the tribes had threatened out¬ 
break, but under his influence settled down to peace and quietness, 
and no more fear was felt by the citizens of any further trouble. 
Gen. Crook is individually acquainted with many of these Indians. 
They esteem him as a great chief whom they can trust, one who 
will defend their interests. The very fact that the Indians he en¬ 
listed as scouts were to fight against their own kin, was sufficient 
evidence of his control over them. He in turn gives them credit 
for possessing more intelligence, courage and shrewdness, than most 
people do, who only partially know their manner of living and 
mode of warfare. 

It was early in the spring of 1883, that the Chiricahuas, the 
unconquered Apache tribe, a remnant of which had always existed 
in the Dragoon Mountains, and others already specified, started out' 
on their customary raids for killing, plundering and burning when¬ 
ever opportunity offered, among defenseless settlers. Crook, both 
from the unexpectedness of the attack and lack of resources at com¬ 
mand, was then unable to overtake and punish these marauding 
bands. The people and the press began to criticise severel}’, and 
to hold him responsible for the results of the outbreak, and to feel 
that he, satisfied with the laurels already won, had become careless 
and indifferent. But Gen. Crook understood the situation far better 
than his critics. With the sound judgment that ever characterized 
his movements, he set about making careful and thorough prepara- 


53 ^ FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


tions for the invasion of the Sierra Madres, some time being occu¬ 
pied ill consulting with the Mexican government, as he was obliged 
to pass through their country in pursuit of the hostiles, and desired 
to act in harmony with that nation. The successful result of the 
Sierra Madre expedition has already been given in full. 

One reason of his uniform success may be attributed to the fact 
that he has accustomed himself to study thoroughly all the details per¬ 
taining to the preparation and carrying on of Indian warfare. He un¬ 
derstands how to pack a mule, mend a saddle, and throw a lariat, 
as well as cook a meal. He messes with the men having charge of 
the pack trains, when engaged in active campaign, that all extra 
labor may be avoided, carrying no special supplies or servants for 
himself; and it would be hard for a stranger to distinguish him at 
such times, as far as regards dress, from any of the subordinates. 
As an illustration of this we give an amusing incident which occurred 
while in preparation for one of these campaigns. 

A man who had never seen Gen. Crook had been employed 
to take charge of the pack-train, with authority to employ such as¬ 
sistants as he might need. While making his arrangements at one 
of the camps, and engaging men to aid in packing the animals, he 
was visited by the General himself, who was giving his personal 
attention to the progress of affairs. The packer, noticing a man 
walking about, dressed in an ordinary manner, and observing that 
he was an able-bodied individual, the following dialogue ensued: 

Packer—“ Say, mister, do you understand packing mules? ” 

Gen. Crook—“ I think I do.” 

Packer—“ Have you had experience in that line? ” 

Gen. Crook—“Well, considerable, here and there.” 

Packer—“Well, I’ll give you forty dollars a month and grub 
to help us in this campaign.” 

Gen. Crook—“I am much obliged for the offer, but I already 
have a job.” 


GEN. GEO. CROOK. 


539 


Packer—“ Is that so? What is the job? ” 

Gen. Crook—“Well, my friend, I am at present commanding 
this department.” 

A roar of laughter from the bystanders followed the abrupt 
termination of the conversation on mule packing, at the expense of 
the discomfited packer, who had pressed his interrogatories to such 
an unwarrantable extent. 

Thirty-one years of the most efficient service has Gen. Crook 
rendered to his country, the frontier having reaped the rich benefits 
of his labor during twenty-six of these. Ceaseless vigilance and 
untiring energy have been required through protracted seasons, yet 
he has never faltered, but has met the demands of every occasion 
in the coolest, the bravest, the most persistent manner. The results 
of his work have been large. Not seen conspicuously by the 
people during the civil war, because shared with the many by 
whom he was surrounded, and swallowed up in the glory of the 
victories accorded to superior officers; yet they are not the less 
real, as proved by the published military reports, and his rapid pro¬ 
motion. In the West there has been opportunity for his deeds to 
stand out in their true significance, and well have they borne the 
test before the severest of all critics—the people. We feel assured 
that the near future will see the fulfillment of plans which were 
necessarily delayed on account of lack of power when most needed. 
Should there be a temporary failure, which we are not willing even 
to foreshadow, it will be attributable to the one fact that he was 
crippled by being subordinate to the Interior Department in his 
dealings with the Apaches. It is to be hoped that the 
late increase of power may undo the mischief, but if not, 
Gen. Crook cannot be blamed. Many would have as¬ 
sumed authority to act in such an emergency, depending 
upon executive clemency, but usurpation of power is not 
one of Gen. Crook’s characteristics. Now, with his well- 


540 FRONTIERSMEN, PIONEERS, AND SCOUTS. 


earned right to power, we look for glorious results. He is a great 
General, and that he is a true philanthropist who can doubt, when 
even the lowest races find in him an interested friend, who helps to 
place them in the way of progress and permanent safety. That he 
is the friend of the Apaches and the Sioux in the exercise of his 
power, without further endangering the rights of others, but in 
time lessening the prospect of harm, will commend him to all true 
men, and such will help to make the work he has to do among 
them and for them the easier, by hearty support and appreciation of 
his efforts. 

We must not fail to record the good fortune of Gen. Crook in 
possessing the truest and best of wives, who has not only shared 
his gayer seasons, but brightened his solitude. Mrs. Crook is 
credited with being remarkably prepossessing in personal appear¬ 
ance. We hear of her in New York as “a delightful lady,” and 
again in the remote regions of Oregon, “ where she is as popular 
and universally loved as her brave and unassuming husband;” and 
he was exceedingly popular. We can desire nothing better than 
that his future efforts may be as successful and pleasing to the 
people as his past labors, resulting in as much beneficence. 





















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